asbestos
UK: æsˈbɛstɒs | US: æsˈbɛstəs
n. A fibrous mineral silicate, highly resistant to heat and fire, historically used in insulation and construction materials.
The word "asbestos" originates from the Greek ἄσβεστος (ásbestos), meaning "inextinguishable" or "unquenchable." It combines the negative prefix a- (not) with sbestos (extinguishable), referencing the material's fire-resistant properties. Ancient Greeks observed its durability against fire, naming it metaphorically for its "unquenchable" nature. The term entered Late Latin as asbestus and later Old French before being adopted into English in the early 1600s.
Asbestos was widely used in building insulation until its health risks were discovered.
Workers handling asbestos must wear protective gear to avoid inhalation.
Many older homes still contain asbestos in their roofing materials.
The mining of asbestos has been banned in numerous countries due to its carcinogenic effects.
Scientists are researching safer alternatives to asbestos for industrial applications.