Minium
/ˈmɪn.i.əm/noun
A bright red pigment consisting chiefly of lead tetroxide, also called red lead.
Did you know?Roman writers used minium for brilliant red decoration, and the name may ultimately be connected with the Minius River—modern Spain’s Miño—where the pigment or its mineral sources were known.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Iberia
Pre-Latin
*minium
“Probable pre-Roman name associated with a red mineral or pigment; the deeper origin is uncertain.”
1st Century BCE–1st Century CE
Latin
minium
“A vivid red mineral pigment; Roman authors used the term especially for cinnabar, while later usage distinguished red lead.”
1st Century CE
Latin
minium
“Pliny the Elder described minium as a highly prized red pigment used in painting and decoration.”
Medieval Period
Medieval Latin
minium
“Red lead or related red pigment used in manuscripts, painting, and coloring.”
16th Century
English
minium
“A red lead pigment adopted as a technical term in English.”
Modern English
English
minium
“Lead tetroxide, Pb₃O₄, used historically as a red pigment and in some industrial applications.”