online vocabulary.com

Galena - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Galena is a lead sulfide mineral with a metallic luster, often gray in color. It is the primary ore of lead and has been used since ancient times for metal extraction.

galena

/ɡəˈliːnə/ /ɡəˈliːnə/

Definition:

A gray mineral, the natural sulfide of lead, often used as an ore.

Synonyms:

lead glance, lead sulfide, blue lead

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

(No direct antonyms; mineral-specific opposites are rare)

Common Collocations:

galena deposits, galena crystals, galena ore

Derivatives:

galenite, galenoid

Usage Tips:

Use "galena" when referring to the mineral or its industrial applications in lead extraction.

Common Phrases:

(No common phrases or idioms; technical term)

Etymology:

From Latin "galena," meaning lead ore or dross from smelting.

Examples:

  • 1. The geologist identified the shiny gray rock as galena.
  • 2. Galena is often found alongside minerals like sphalerite and pyrite.
  • 3. Miners extract lead from galena for use in batteries.
  • 4. The crystal structure of galena makes it easy to recognize.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS