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

Example Sentences

Jurors said asbestos-contaminated vermiculite that spilled in the rail yard in the town of Libby, Montana was a substantial factor in the plaintiffs’ illnesses and death.

From Seattle Times

Attorneys for the Warren Buffett-owned company say the railroad’s corporate predecessors didn’t know the vermiculite it hauled over decades from a nearby mine was filled with hazardous microscopic asbestos fibers.

From Seattle Times

Grace & Co. mine near Libby produced the contaminated vermiculite that exposed residents to asbestos, sickening thousands and leading to the deaths of hundreds.

From Seattle Times

Root cuttings in a small container filled with vermiculite or a well-drained potting mix.

From Seattle Times

They should be disposed of in decided bins, in shops or recycling centres, containing a mineral called vermiculite to reduce the risk of fires.

From BBC