1 amphibole | Definition of amphibole
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amphibole

noun
am·​phi·​bole | \ ˈam(p)-fə-ˌbōl How to pronounce amphibole (audio) \

Definition of amphibole

1 : hornblende
2 : any of a group of complex silicate minerals with like crystal structures that contain calcium, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, or iron ions or a combination of them

Examples of amphibole in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 For example, a class of minerals known as amphiboles change chemistry depending on the temperature and pressure during crystallization. — National Geographic, "Magma found simmering under an 'extinct' volcano. Here's what that means.," 17 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'amphibole.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of amphibole

1799, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for amphibole

French, from Late Latin amphibolus, from Greek amphibolos ambiguous, from amphiballein to throw round, doubt, from amphi- + ballein to throw — more at devil

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More Definitions for amphibole

amphibole

noun
am·​phi·​bole | \ ˈam(p)-fə-ˌbōl How to pronounce amphibole (audio) \

Medical Definition of amphibole

: any of a group of complex silicate minerals with like crystal structures that contain calcium, sodium, magnesium, aluminum, and iron ions or a combination of them — see crocidolite

More from Merriam-Webster on amphibole

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about amphibole

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