noun
MineralogyA hydrated basic fluophosphate of sodium, calcium, and aluminium, NaCa₂ Al₂ (PO₄)₂ (OH)F₄ ·2H₂ O, which crystallizes in the monoclinic system and occurs as colourless, white, or pale pinkish crystals and red lamellar masses.
Origin
Late 19th century; earliest use found in Edward Dana (1849–1935), mineralogist and physicist. From French morinite from the name of E. A. Morineau, director of the mine at Montebras, France, where the mineral was first found + -ite.
Are You Learning English? Here Are Our Top English Tips