How Do You Spell CINNABAR?

Pronunciation: [sˈɪnɐbˌɑː] (IPA)

Cinnabar is a bright red mineral often used in cosmetics and traditional Chinese medicine. The correct spelling of this word is sɪnəbɑː, with the stress on the second syllable. The first two letters, "ci," are pronounced like "sin" in English, while the emphasis is on the third syllable "bar." In some dialects, the word may be pronounced with a longer "a" sound towards the end, like "baa-r." Overall, the spelling of cinnabar may present a challenge to English learners due to its unusual sound combination.

CINNABAR Meaning and Definition

1. Cinnabar is a noun that refers to a bright red mineral compound composed mainly of mercury sulfide (HgS). Its name is derived from the Persian word "zinjifrah," which means "dragon's blood," due to its vibrant, reddish appearance. Cinnabar is often characterized by its deep scarlet or vermilion color and can occur in crystalline form or as earthy masses.

   The mineral has a long history of usage in various cultural contexts, primarily in the creation of pigments and ornaments. In ancient civilizations, such as the Chinese and Mayans, cinnabar was commonly employed as a pigment for its intense red hue, and it was used in the decoration of royal tombs, religious artifacts, and jewelry. The color was also associated with vitality, life force, and divine power.

   Apart from its aesthetic value, cinnabar possesses distinct chemical properties. It is notably dense and has a high refractive index, making it valuable for optical applications and in the manufacturing of scientific instruments. However, cinnabar's most significant characteristic is its mercury content, which can be toxic if ingested or inhaled as vapor. Thus, proper precautions must be taken when handling or mining cinnabar.

   In summary, cinnabar is a brilliant red mineral composed mainly of mercury sulfide. It has been historically valued for its vivid color and employed in various cultural contexts for painting, adornments, and as a symbol of power. Additionally, it possesses unique chemical properties and should be handled with care due to its mercury toxicity.

2. The native ore from which metallic mercury is obtained by sublimation; red sulphide of mercury.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. The native red sulphuret of mercury; the artificial cinnabar of commerce is called vermilion.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CINNABAR

• cinnabon
• cinnibar
• cinnama
• xinnabar
• vinnabar
• finnabar
• dinnabar
• cunnabar
• cjnnabar
• cknnabar
• connabar
• cynnabar
• cinnaber
• Cunnaza
• Cinambar
• Finabar

Etymology of CINNABAR

The word "cinnabar" has its origins in the Old French term "cinabre", which was derived from the Latin word "cinnabaris". This Latin word, in turn, was borrowed from the Greek word "kinnabari", which had Semitic roots. It is believed that the ultimate origin of the word is from the Akkadian word "knappu", which referred to a red dye derived from another source. Ultimately, the word "cinnabar" has been used throughout history to describe the mineral mercury sulfide, which is known for its vibrant red color and has been used as a pigment in various cultures around the world.

Similar spelling words for CINNABAR

• Whipper-snapper,
• Sunbury,
• CENPRO,
• XNBR,
• cinibar,
• snnpr,
• sunberry,
• senebiera,
• sonepur,
• sunbury-on-thames,
• snobbery,
• snowbear,
• ZnBr,
• sonapur,
• sunpower,
• Snipper,
• snooper,
• snapper,
• sniper-scout,
• sanbar,
• sianipar,
• Cinnabre,
• snubber,
• Cinabre,
• Wit-snapper,
• Cinoper,
• Gnat-snapper,
• Snipper-snaper,
• sanabria,
• ZnBr2,
• snowberry,
• Cinabra,
• sanpro,
• sinoper,
• sniper.

Plural form of CINNABAR is CINNABARS