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orthoclase

Pronunciation: /ˈɔːθəkleɪz/

Definition of orthoclase

noun

[mass noun]
  • a common rock-forming mineral occurring typically as white or pink crystals. It is a potassium-rich alkali feldspar and is used in ceramics and glass-making.

Origin:

mid 19th century: from ortho- 'straight' + Greek klasis 'breaking' (because of the characteristic two cleavages at right angles)

orthoclase in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of orthoclase in the US English dictionary

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