Dyscrystalline

/dɪsˈkrɪstəlɪn/ adjective

Definition

Having a poorly formed or abnormally structured crystalline structure; not forming proper crystals.

Etymology

From Greek dys- (bad, abnormal) + crystalline (having the structure and form of a crystal). This technical term applies to mineral science and chemistry, describing crystals that fail to develop normal geometric forms or internal atomic arrangements.

Kelly Says

Mineralogists and chemists use this word to describe crystals that can't get their act together—atoms that won't line up properly, creating weak or cloudy materials instead of the perfect geometric beauties in your high school mineral collection.

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