Mineralize
/ˈmɪn.ə.rə.laɪz/noun
To convert into or be converted into a mineral or mineral-like substance; to impregnate with minerals.
Did you know?The root behind mineral ultimately comes from Latin *minera*, meaning a mine or ore, so the word’s history is tied to the hidden stuff pulled from the earth’s body.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
minera
“A mine or ore; a vein of metal-bearing earth”
Late Latin
Latin
mineralis
“Of or belonging to mines or minerals”
Middle French
Old French
mineral
“A mineral, especially a substance from the earth”
Late 16th Century
English
mineralize
“To impregnate with mineral matter; to turn into or make mineral in nature”
Modern English
English
mineralize
“To convert into a mineral or mineral-like form, or to deposit minerals in a substance”