Mafic definition

măfĭk
(geol.) Of or pertaining to igneous rocks that are rich in dark-colored minerals and that contain magnesium and iron and a comparatively low level of silica.
adjective
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Relating to or containing a group of dark-colored silicate minerals, composed chiefly of magnesium and iron, that occur in igneous rocks, including hornblende, pyroxene, olivine, and biotite.
adjective
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Relating to an igneous rock that contains a group of dark-colored minerals, composed chiefly of magnesium and iron.
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(geology) Describing rocks, such as silicate minerals, magmas, and volcanic and intrusive igneous rocks, which contain relatively high concentrations of magnesium and iron.
adjective
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A rock with such properties.
noun
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Other Word Forms

Noun

Singular:
mafic
Plural:
mafics

Origin of mafic

  • ma(gnesium) Latin f(errum) iron –ic

    From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

  • Blend of magnesium and ferric.

    From Wiktionary