noun
pyrite
PIE-rite/paɪˈraɪt̮i/
A yellow iron sulfide mineral often mistaken for gold.
The pyrite in this rock shines like gold in sunlight.
Etymology
Greek pyritēs appeared in a phrase meaning “stone of fire,” named for its glitter. That fiery shine connects the name to the bright mineral known as fool’s gold.
In context
Iron pyrite is often associated with gold. So, don't ignore it just because they call it fool's gold.
More examples
- The museum displays a cluster of cube-shaped pyrite crystals.
- She mistakes a piece of pyrite for gold.
- This sample of pyrite contains iron and sulfur.
Forms
pyritic adjective — Containing or resembling the mineral pyrite.
Similar words
- fool's gold
- An informal name emphasizing pyrite's misleading resemblance to gold.