word

iolite

EYE-oh-lyt

ˈaɪəlaɪt

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Syllable breakdown

iolite

Dictionary meaning

A violet-blue variety of the mineral cordierite; one of the best natural indicators of the sun's position because it changes color when rotated, used by Viking navigators.

History and origin

Greek — 'ion' (violet) + 'lithos' (stone).

Examples

Viking sailors may have used iolite as a navigational tool, observing how its colour changed with the sun's direction.

Common mispronunciations

ee-oh-LYTEEYE-oh-lite

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