How Do You Spell MACLE?

Pronunciation: [məklˈiː] (IPA)

The word "Macle" can be difficult to spell because it is not commonly used. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈmeɪkəl/. The first syllable sounds like "may" and the second syllable ends with a soft "k" sound, followed by an unstressed "uh" sound. The word is spelled with a "c" instead of a "k" despite the pronunciation because it is derived from the Scottish Gaelic word "maol," meaning "bald" or "bare." As such, "Macle" is often used as a Scottish surname.

MACLE Meaning and Definition

1. Macle, also known as twin crystal or twin, is a term used in the field of mineralogy to describe a specific type of crystal formation. It refers to a phenomenon where two or more crystals of the same mineral species grow together symmetrically, sharing a common plane or axis.

   The formation of macles occurs due to irregularities or disturbances during the crystal growth process. These disturbances can be a result of external factors such as pressure or temperature changes, or internal factors such as impurities or defects in the crystal lattice structure. As a result of these disturbances, the crystals grow in twinned form, exhibiting a parallel or intergrown relationship.

   Macles can have various shapes and orientations, depending on the type of twinning that has occurred. Common types of twinning include penetration twinning, where two crystals share a common axis and appear to penetrate each other, and contact twinning, where two crystals remain connected along a common plane.

   Macles can be found in various minerals, including quartz, feldspar, calcite, and pyrite, among others. The presence of macles can often result in distinctive crystal shapes and formations, adding to the aesthetic appeal and beauty of the mineral specimen.

   Overall, macles are a fascinating and visually intriguing aspect of crystal formation, contributing to the diversity and complexity observed in the world of minerals.

2. Another name for chiastolite, from the twin form of its crystals.

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

Common Misspellings for MACLE

• kacle
• jacle
• mzcle
• mwcle
• mqcle
• mavle
• mafle
• macpe
• macoe
• maclw
• macls
• macld
• maclr
• macl4
• macl3
• nmacle
• kmacle
• mkacle
• jmacle

Etymology of MACLE

The word "macle" has its origins in the Old French word "macule" meaning "spot" or "stain". The term was initially used in gemology to describe twinned crystals, which are crystals that have grown together in a way that they appear as if they have spots or stains on them. Over time, the meaning of "macle" expanded to include any type of twinning in minerals or crystals.

Plural form of MACLE is MACLES