apophyllite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “apophyllite” mean?
A mineral of the phyllosilicate group, typically forming transparent or white crystals.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A mineral of the phyllosilicate group, typically forming transparent or white crystals.
A zeolite mineral, often found in volcanic rock cavities, prized by mineral collectors for its vitreous lustre and perfect cleavage.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No difference in meaning, spelling, or usage.
Connotations
None.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialized in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “apophyllite” in a Sentence
Apophyllite is found in [geological location].The [specimen/rock] contains apophyllite.Apophyllite crystallises in the [crystal system].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually unused, except perhaps in the niche trade of mineral dealing.
Academic
Used in geology, mineralogy, and crystallography papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Extremely rare; only used by hobbyist rock collectors or in specific educational contexts.
Technical
The primary register for this word; used with precision to classify a specific mineral species.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “apophyllite”
- Misspelling: 'apophillite', 'apopyllite'.
- Mispronunciation: placing stress on the first syllable (AP-oh-fy-lite) instead of the second.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Apophyllite is a specific mineral, a hydrated potassium calcium silicate, known for forming clear, glassy crystals.
It is commonly found in volcanic rock cavities, notably in locations like India, Brazil, and Iceland.
While not a precious gemstone, high-quality crystal specimens are valuable to mineral collectors.
It is highly unlikely unless you are speaking with a geologist or a mineral enthusiast about specific rocks.
A mineral of the phyllosilicate group, typically forming transparent or white crystals.
Apophyllite is usually technical / scientific in register.
Apophyllite: in British English it is pronounced /əˈpɒfɪlʌɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /əˈpɑːfɪlaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'A POtentially PHYLLo-shaped mineralITE' – 'phyllo' relates to its sheet-like (phyllosilicate) structure.
Conceptual Metaphor
None standard. Poetically, its transparent, geometric crystals could be metaphorically linked to 'frozen water' or 'architectural glass'.
Practice
Quiz
In which scientific field is the term 'apophyllite' primarily used?