mineral
[ min-er-uh l, min-ruh l ]
/ ˈmɪn ər əl, ˈmɪn rəl /
noun
adjective
Origin of mineral
OTHER WORDS FROM mineral
non·min·er·al, noun, adjective sem·i·min·er·al, adjectiveWords nearby mineral
Example sentences from the Web for minerals
British Dictionary definitions for minerals
mineral
/ (ˈmɪnərəl, ˈmɪnrəl) /
noun
any of a class of naturally occurring solid inorganic substances with a characteristic crystalline form and a homogeneous chemical composition
any inorganic matter
any substance obtained by mining, esp a metal ore
(often plural) British short for mineral water
British
a soft drink containing carbonated water and flavourings
Usual US word: soda
adjective
of, relating to, containing, or resembling minerals
Word Origin for mineral
C15: from Medieval Latin
minerāle (n), from
minerālis (adj); related to
minera mine, ore, of uncertain origin
Medical definitions for minerals
mineral
[ mĭn′ər-əl ]
n.
A naturally occurring, homogeneous inorganic solid substance having a definite chemical composition and characteristic crystalline structure, color, and hardness.
An inorganic element, such as calcium, iron, potassium, sodium, or zinc, that is essential to the nutrition of humans, animals, and plants.
Scientific definitions for minerals
mineral
[ mĭn′ər-əl ]
A naturally occurring, solid, inorganic element or compound having a uniform composition and a regularly repeating internal structure. Minerals typically have a characteristic hardness and color, or range of colors, by which they can be recognized. Rocks are made up of minerals.
A natural substance of commercial value, such as iron ore, coal, or petroleum, that is obtained by mining, quarrying, or drilling.
Cultural definitions for minerals (1 of 2)
minerals
In the diet, certain substances necessary for the maintenance of life and good health. Some are essential components of bodily substances, such as the calcium in bones and the iron in hemoglobin, whereas others help regulate the activities of metabolism. (See under “Earth Sciences.”)
Cultural definitions for minerals (2 of 2)
mineral
In geology, a naturally occurring inorganic substance (see inorganic molecules) with a definite chemical composition and a regular internal structure.
notes for mineral
Most minerals are
crystals, like salt and diamonds.
notes for mineral
Rocks are aggregates of minerals.