coffinite: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “coffinite” mean?
A black, radioactive uranium silicate mineral with the chemical formula U(SiO4)1−x(OH)4x.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A black, radioactive uranium silicate mineral with the chemical formula U(SiO4)1−x(OH)4x.
A specific, relatively rare mineral, primarily of interest to geologists and mineralogists, often found in uranium ore deposits.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No difference in usage or spelling. Pronunciations may follow respective accent patterns.
Connotations
None beyond its scientific definition.
Frequency
Equally rare in both UK and US English, appearing only in specialised geological contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “coffinite” in a Sentence
[Coffinite] occurs in [location].[Subject] identified [coffinite] within the matrix.[Coffinite] is associated with [other mineral].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coffinite” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The coffinite sample was highly crystalline.
- They analysed the coffinite-bearing rock.
American English
- The coffinite specimen was remarkably pure.
- A coffinite-rich zone was mapped.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in geology, mineralogy, and nuclear materials science journals and lectures.
Everyday
Not used. Would require significant explanation.
Technical
The primary context. Used in geological surveys, mining reports, and mineralogical descriptions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “coffinite”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coffinite”
- Misspelling as 'coffinite' (double f) or 'cofinite'.
- Mispronouncing the first 'i' as a long /i:/ instead of a short /ɪ/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffinite is a black, radioactive mineral composed of uranium, silicon, and oxygen (a uranium silicate).
It is named after the American geologist Reuben Clare Coffin.
Like many uranium minerals, it is radioactive and should be handled only with proper training and precautions.
You would only encounter it in highly specialised texts on mineralogy, uranium mining, or nuclear geology.
A black, radioactive uranium silicate mineral with the chemical formula U(SiO4)1−x(OH)4x.
Coffinite is usually technical / scientific in register.
Coffinite: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkɒfɪnʌɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkɔːfɪnaɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a geologist named Coffin finding a black, coffin-shaped crystal; Coffin-ite.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A (Scientific object).
Practice
Quiz
Coffinite is primarily of interest to which field?