terra alba

[al-buh, awl-]

noun

1. any of various white, earthy or powdery substances, as pipe clay, gypsum, kaolin, or magnesia.

terra alba

/ ˈælbə /

noun

1. a white finely powdered form of gypsum, used to make paints, paper, etc

2. any of various other white earthy substances, such as kaolin, pipeclay, and magnesia

Word History and Origins

Origin of terra alba¹

1870–75; < Latin: white earth

Word History and Origins

Origin of terra alba¹

from Latin, literally: white earth

Example Sentences

It is also in wide industrial demand as a flux in smelting, as ''mineral white" or "terra alba'' in the paper, textile and paint trades.

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Terra alba, white clay, which is fine as sugar, and is sieved into cream work or on candy, and worked into it.

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It's terra alba and cochineal.

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It is doubtful if an adulterated sugar can be found in the United States, notwithstanding the tales of the grocer who "sands" his sugar, and of the producer who adds terra alba or some other adulterant.

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In the case of confectionery: If it contains terra alba, barytes, talc, chrome yellow or other mineral substance or poisonous colour or flavour, or other ingredient deleterious or detrimental to health, or any vinous, malt or spirituous liquor or compound or narcotic drug.

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