amianthus

[ am-ee-an-thuhs ]

noun

, Mineralogy.

1. a fine variety of asbestos, with delicate, flexible filaments.

amianthus

/ ˌæmɪˈænθəs /

noun

1. any of the fine silky varieties of asbestos

Derived Forms

• ˌamiˈanthine, adjective

Other Words From

• am·i·an·thine [am-ee-, an, -th, uh, n, -thahyn], adjective
• ami·anthoid ami·an·thoidal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of amianthus¹

1660–70; < Latin amiantus < Greek amíantos, equivalent to a- a- ⁶ + mian- (stem of miaínein to defile, make impure) + -tos verbal adjective suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of amianthus¹

C17: from Latin amiantus, from Greek amiantos unsullied, from a- ¹+ miainein to pollute

Example Sentences

As regards the indications of Asbestos, it is a general recognised fact, and one that may be depended on, that not alone in Canada, but indeed all other places where Asbestos-bearing serpentine is found, the existence of Asbestos, or "Amianthus," is noticed when the serpentine is exposed, and presents a rusted, sometimes greyish and broken appearance, due to decomposition or weathering, or covered with a thin layer of soil.

From Project Gutenberg

There are mines of anthracite, antimony and copper; the island produces granite, building stone, marble, and amianthus, and there are salt marshes.

From Project Gutenberg

What store of Amianthus there is in Cyprus; and how they work it?

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Clark's collection of the graphic granites, serpentines, and talcose and mica schists, of the district, with their associated minerals, such as schorl, talc, asbestos, amianthus, mountain cork, steatite, and schiller spar, will be found eminently worthy a visit by the passing traveller.

From Project Gutenberg

This amianthus looks like flax, and to a person unacquainted with it, appears to be as truly combustible; but the mineralogist, and all who know its properties, know very well that it will not—wills nothing, has no inclination, or tendency, to burn.

From Project Gutenberg