vermiculite

[ ver-mik-yuh-lahyt ]

noun

1. any of a group of platy minerals, hydrous silicates of aluminum, magnesium, and iron, that expand markedly on being heated: used in the expanded state for heat insulation and as a plant growth medium.

vermiculite

/ vɜːˈmɪkjʊˌlaɪt /

noun

1. any of a group of micaceous minerals consisting mainly of hydrated silicate of magnesium, aluminium, and iron: on heating they expand and exfoliate and in this form are used in heat and sound insulation, fireproofing, and as a bedding medium for young plants

Word History and Origins

Origin of vermiculite¹

An Americanism dating back to 1815–25; vermicul(ar) + -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of vermiculite¹

C19: from vermicul ( ar ) + -ite ¹