Basaltine is a word used to describe a rock or a mineral that resembles or is composed of basalt. The spelling of the word is based on the pronunciation of its two syllables: bə-sawl-tin. The 'a' in basaltine is pronounced with a schwa sound, while 'sawlt' has a short 'o' sound, and the stress in the word is on the second syllable (-tine). The word is commonly used by geologists to describe basalt-like rocks found in various parts of the world.
Basaltine refers to a type of rock that is primarily composed of basalt. Basalt is an igneous rock that forms from the solidification of lava or magma. It is characterized by its fine-grained texture and dark color, typically ranging from dark gray to black. Basaltine rocks are commonly found in volcanic areas and have been used for various purposes since ancient times.
The term basaltine can also have a broader meaning, referring to anything that directly relates to or is characteristic of basalt. For instance, basaltine lava refers to the type of lava that is erupted from volcanoes and solidifies into basalt rock. Similarly, basaltine formations describe geological structures or features that are made up of basalt rock, such as lava flows, dykes, or columns.
In addition to its geological significance, basaltine can also be used in the context of artistic or decorative applications. Basaltine sculptures or artworks, for example, refer to those pieces of art created using basalt as the primary material. The term can also be extended to describe certain physical or visual characteristics resembling those of basalt, such as a dark, dense, or earthy appearance.
Overall, the term basaltine encompasses the geological, material, and aesthetic aspects related to basalt, serving as a versatile descriptor for various phenomena, objects, or features associated with this type of rock.
Crystallised horn blende.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.