Ore Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ore
[ɔː ]
Definitions
mining
A naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ore |
Used when referring to naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be profitably extracted.
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| mineral |
Refers to a naturally occurring substance that is usually solid and inorganic, and which has a crystal structure due to its chemical composition.
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| rock |
Refers to a naturally occurring substance composed of minerals and other materials, forming the Earth's crust. It is often used in a more general sense compared to 'ore' or 'mineral'.
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| deposit |
Used in geological context to refer to a natural layer, body, or accumulation of a mineral that occurs in the earth. It can also be used in a broader context to mean any accumulation or pool, such as 'oil deposit'.
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Examples of usage
- The mine was rich in iron ore.
- Gold ore is often found in quartz veins.
geology
A rocky mass or deposit containing a valuable mineral.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ore |
Typically used in a general sense to refer to naturally occurring mineral from which metals or valuable minerals can be profitably extracted.
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| mineral |
A general term used to describe a naturally occurring substance with a definite chemical composition, often used in scientific and educational contexts.
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| deposit |
Used to refer to a natural accumulation of minerals or other geological materials, often found in a specific area or layer.
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| lode |
Refers specifically to a rich source of a mineral or metal found in a well-defined zone or vein, often used in geology and mining.
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Examples of usage
- The geologist discovered a vein of copper ore.
- The mine was known for its silver ore deposits.
archaic
To uncover or extract valuable minerals from the earth.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ore |
This term is often used in the mining and geology fields to describe a natural rock or sediment that contains valuable minerals. It's not typically used in everyday conversation.
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| extract |
Commonly used when referring to the process of removing something from a larger whole by a specific method or technique. It is more formal and technical than 'dig'.
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| mine |
This is a verb and noun used in the context of obtaining minerals, coal, or other resources from the earth. It is often used in professional and industrial settings.
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| dig |
Use this word when talking about the physical action of making a hole in the ground using hands, tools, or machines. It is a common term in everyday language.
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Examples of usage
- The miners were hired to ore the precious metals from the ground.
- He ored the gold from the riverbed.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Geology
- Ores are often found in specific geological formations, such as veins, which are linear deposits of minerals.
- The extraction of metal ores generally involves mining, either through surface mining or underground mining techniques.
Environmental Impact
- Mining operations can greatly impact the environment, leading to habitat destruction and potential pollution.
- Efforts are being made to reduce the environmental footprint of ore extraction through sustainable practices and technology.
Industrial Use
- Ores are essential in producing materials used in construction, electronics, and machinery.
- Iron ore is a primary source for steel production, greatly influencing infrastructure development globally.
Pop Culture
- The video game 'Minecraft' features various types of ores players can mine to craft tools and build structures.
- In the world of popular media, ore often symbolizes wealth and the pursuit of resources, showing its importance across societies.
Origin of 'ore'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ore' comes from the Old English word 'or', meaning 'a source' or 'a material'.
- Related terms in other languages include the Latin 'aura', meaning 'gold', showing a long-standing association with valuable materials.
The word 'ore' originated from Old English 'ār', meaning 'brass, copper, bronze'. It has been used in the context of mining and geology for centuries to refer to valuable minerals found in the earth's crust. Ores have played a significant role in human civilization, driving exploration, mining, and the development of metallurgy. The extraction and processing of ores have shaped the history of economies and societies around the world.