malachite

/ˈmæl.ə.kaɪt/·noun·15th century, from Greek malakhitēs lithos meaning mallow-stone, via Latin and Old French·Established

Origin

Named for the humble mallow plant — because this vivid green copper mineral reminded the ancient Greeks of mallow leaves.

Definition

A bright green mineral consisting of hydrated copper carbonate, used as an ornamental stone and as a source of copper.

The Full Story

Greek15th centurywell-attested

From Greek molochē or malachē meaning mallow plant, because the mineral's color resembles mallow leaves Key roots: malakhē (Greek: "mallow plant").

Ancient Roots

malakhē (Greek: “mallow plant”)

This Word in Other Languages

malachite(French)malaquita(Spanish)malachite(Italian)Malachit(German)

Did you know?

The Malachite Room of the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg uses over two tonnes of malachite as decorative cladding — columns, vases, and wall panels of solid green stone. The material came from the Ural Mountains, which in the 19th century produced most of the world's malachite.

Malachite Wiki Article· 2 min read