pyrite

Meanings

Plural: pyrites

Noun

a common mineral (iron disulfide) that has a pale yellow color
The common mineral iron disulfide (FeS₂), of a pale brass-yellow color and brilliant metallic luster, crystallizing in the isometric system.
Any metallic-looking sulphide, such as the above, which is the most common.
(usually as a plural: pyrites) Any metal dichalcogenide that is isostructural to the common mineral.

Origin / Etymology

Recorded since 1555, from Old French pyrite (12th century), from Latin pȳritēs, from Ancient Greek πυρίτης λίθος (purítēs líthos, “stone of fire, flint”) (so called because it glitters), notably the first part: adjective πυρίτης (purítēs, “of or in fire”), from πῦρ (pûr, “fire”). Analyzable as pyr- + -ite

Synonyms

fool's gold, iron pyrite, iron pyrites

Scrabble Score: 11

pyrite is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
pyrite is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
pyrite is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 11

pyrite is a valid Words With Friends word