noun

hornblende

hornblende

Hornblende is a common rock-forming mineral.

Hornblende is a common rock-forming mineral.

The dark crystals in the granite are hornblende.

The dark crystals in the granite are hornblende.

((a mineral)) Hornblende is a common rock-forming mineral.

Synonyms: amphibole

From German 'Horn' (horn) + 'blenden' (to blind, dazzle), because it has a horn-like cleavage and a lustre that 'blinds' the eye with respect to its metal content.

Think of a mineral that looks like a 'horn' and 'blends' into dark rocks. It's a very specific geological term.

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