Meaning & Definition of word "Ore"
to
Ore
/ɔːr/
noun:
- 1. A naturally occurring solid material from which a metal or valuable mineral can be extracted profitably.
- Example: The miners discovered a rich vein of copper ore deep within the mountain.
- 2. A type of mineral deposit that can be mined for economic benefit.
- Example: Iron ore is the primary raw material used in the production of steel.
- 3. A type of rock that contains sufficient amounts of a particular element or compound to make extraction profitable.
- Example: The region is known for its high-quality gold ore deposits.
- 4. Material from which a substance is obtained through mining or processing.
- Example: After processing the ore, the group was able to extract silver from the rock.
- 5. The mineral or aggregate serving as the source of a metal or mineral, typically containing impurities.
- Example: Aluminum ore, often referred to as bauxite, is mined extensively in tropical regions.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'ora', etymologically related to Dutch 'erts' and German 'Erz'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
ore deposit:
A locality in which ore is found.
iron ore:
Rock or mineral from which iron can be extracted.
gold ore:
Ore containing gold, which can be mined.
Related Words
extraction:
The process of removing the valuable minerals from ore.
smelting:
The process of extracting metal from its ore by heating and melting.