Meerschaum: meaning, definitions and examples

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meerschaum

 

[ ˈmɪərˌʃɔːm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

materials

Meerschaum is a soft, white mineral, chemically known as hydrous magnesium silicate, that is often used to manufacture tobacco pipes. It is prized for its ability to absorb moisture and its lightweight nature, making it ideal for pipe makers. The name 'meerschaum' comes from the German word meaning 'sea foam,' reflecting its light color and texture.

Synonyms

block clay, pipe clay, silicate

Examples of usage

  • He bought a meerschaum pipe from a local artisan.
  • The meerschaum absorbed the flavor of the tobacco beautifully.
  • They collected meerschaum for its unique properties.

Translations

Translations of the word "meerschaum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 meerschaum

🇮🇳 मीर्स्चौम

🇩🇪 Meeresschaum

🇮🇩 meerschaum

🇺🇦 міршам

🇵🇱 meerschaum

🇯🇵 ミルシャム

🇫🇷 méerschaum

🇪🇸 mármol marino

🇹🇷 deniz köpüğü

🇰🇷 미르샴

🇸🇦 ميشام

🇨🇿 mořská pěna

🇸🇰 morská pena

🇨🇳 海泡石

🇸🇮 meerschaum

🇮🇸 sjávarskum

🇰🇿 теңіз көбік

🇬🇪 მიდუშა

🇦🇿 dəniz köpüyü

🇲🇽 meerschaum

Etymology

The term 'meerschaum' derives from the German word 'Meer' meaning 'sea' and 'Schaum,' meaning 'foam,' which refers to the mineral's light color and its foamy texture. It has been used since the 18th century primarily in the production of smoking pipes. The unique qualities of meerschaum, such as its ability to cool smoke and absorb moisture, led to its popularity among pipe makers and smokers alike. The material itself is mined predominantly in Turkey, specifically in the region of Eskişehir, where it is also referred to by the locals as ‘lületaşı.’ Over time, meerschaum pipes became a fashion statement among tobacco enthusiasts and collectors around the world, celebrated for their exquisite craftsmanship and ability to develop a beautiful patina with age.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,319, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.