pyrite
pyrite Lexical Profile
pyrite Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A common brass-yellow mineral consisting of iron disulfide, noted for its metallic luster and historically known for deceiving prospectors who mistook it for gold.
"During the gold rush, many inexperienced miners filled their pans with shimmering flakes of pyrite, only to learn later that their findings were virtually worthless."
Word Nuance & Usage
Often famously referred to as 'fool's gold,' pyrite is frequently confused with native gold due to its superficial resemblance, though it is much harder, more brittle, and leaves a greenish-black streak when scratched.
• Rhymes for pyrite
Word Origin & Etymology
From Latin 'pyrites', derived from the Greek 'puritēs' meaning 'of fire' (from 'pur', fire), named because the mineral emits sparks when struck forcefully against steel or flint.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.