Anorthose

/ænɔrˈθoʊs/ noun

Definition

A feldspathic mineral or a type of feldspar lacking the ordered crystal structure of true orthoclase.

Etymology

From Greek 'an-' (without) + 'orthos' (correct/straight) + '-ose' (mineral suffix). Used in mineralogy to describe feldspars with atypical crystalline arrangements.

Kelly Says

The naming of minerals often captures the order (or lack of it) in their atomic structure—'anorthose' is literally calling out a mineral for being 'not right,' which is exactly how scientists think about crystal structures.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.