granite
UK: ˈɡrænɪt | US: ˈɡrænɪt
n. 1. A hard, granular, igneous rock composed chiefly of quartz, feldspar, and mica.
n. 2. (Figurative) Unyielding firmness or endurance.
granite = gran<grain> + ite<rock/mineral suffix>
- gran (from Latin granum, meaning "grain" or "seed") → Reflects the coarse-grained texture of the rock.
- ite (a suffix from Greek -ites, used in mineral/rock names) → Denotes a natural substance or rock type.
Etymology Origin:
The word granite entered English via French (granit) in the mid-17th century, tracing back to Italian granito ("grained"), derived from Latin granum. The term highlights the rock’s granular structure, a defining feature observed by early geologists. The suffix -ite was later standardized in mineralogy, cementing its scientific usage.
The kitchen countertop was made of polished granite.
Granite is commonly used in construction for its durability.
The mountain’s core consisted of ancient granite formations.
His resolve was as unshakable as granite.
Geologists study granite to understand Earth’s crustal processes.