First Known Use: 1800
Dictionary
pyroxene
noun py·rox·ene \pī-ˈräk-ˌsēn, pə-\
Definition of PYROXENE
: any of a group of igneous-rock-forming silicate minerals that contain calcium, sodium, magnesium, iron, or aluminum, usually occur in short prismatic crystals or massive form, are often laminated, and vary in color from white to dark green or black
— py·rox·e·nic \ˌpī-ˌräk-ˈsē-nik, pə-, -ˈse-\ adjective
— py·rox·e·noid \pī-ˈräk-sə-ˌnȯid, pə-\ adjective or noun
See pyroxene defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PYROXENE
French pyroxène, from Greek pyr- + xenos stranger
Learn More About PYROXENE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: pyroxene groupPrevious Word in the Dictionary: pyrotritaric acidAll Words Near: pyroxene
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up pyroxene? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).