glaucophane: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “glaucophane” mean?
A blue to lavender-blue mineral, a sodium-rich amphibole, found in metamorphic rocks.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A blue to lavender-blue mineral, a sodium-rich amphibole, found in metamorphic rocks.
A mineralogical term for a specific silicate mineral that is characteristic of high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic facies, such as blueschist.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling and pronunciation are consistent.
Connotations
None beyond its strict scientific definition.
Frequency
Equally rare and specialized in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “glaucophane” in a Sentence
[Glaucophane] is found in [rock type].The [rock] contains [glaucophane].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “glaucophane” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The glaucophane-rich layers were clearly visible.
- A glaucophane-bearing assemblage was identified.
American English
- The glaucophane-rich layers were clearly visible.
- A glaucophane-bearing assemblage was identified.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used exclusively in geological research papers, textbooks, and lectures concerning metamorphic petrology.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The primary context. Used by geologists, mineralogists, and earth science professionals to describe rock composition and metamorphic conditions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “glaucophane”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “glaucophane”
- Mispronunciation (e.g., /ɡlɔːˈkɒfən/).
- Misspelling (e.g., 'glucophane', 'glaucophone').
- Using it as a general adjective for colour.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Glaucophane is a blue silicate mineral belonging to the amphibole group, important in identifying specific metamorphic rocks called blueschists.
No, it is a highly specialized scientific term used almost exclusively in geology and mineralogy.
No, it has no application in general conversation. Its use is confined to technical descriptions in earth sciences.
It indicates that the rock formed under high-pressure, relatively low-temperature conditions, typically in subduction zones.
A blue to lavender-blue mineral, a sodium-rich amphibole, found in metamorphic rocks.
Glaucophane is usually technical/scientific in register.
Glaucophane: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡlɔːkə(ʊ)feɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡlɔːkəˌfeɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'GLAUCOus' (meaning bluish-green) + 'PHANE' (appearing/shining) = a shining blue mineral.
Conceptual Metaphor
None in common usage.
Practice
Quiz
In which type of rock is glaucophane most commonly found?