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Glite Dictionary
loadstone

loadstone

9.9
A naturally magnetic stone that attracts pieces of iron
  • noun
  • /ˈloʊdˌstoʊn/
  • Specialized
translation icon : loadstone
  • The loadstone was used in ancient navigation.

Examples

  • Many ancient sailors relied on loadstones for guidance.

  • The ancient sailors used a loadstone to help navigate their ships by finding the magnetic north.

  • A loadstone can attract small pieces of iron due to its magnetic properties.

  • Early sailors used a loadstone to help them navigate the seas.

  • The museum displayed a large, naturally occurring loadstone among its mineral collections.

  • In science class, we learned that a loadstone can naturally attract iron filings.

  • The museum displayed a large piece of loadstone that demonstrated its unique magnetic properties.

Synonyms

magnetite
vsloadstone
  • Specialized
2 8.3

A black magnetic mineral made of iron and oxygen found in hard rocks

is the specific natural form known for attracting iron and showing magnetic polarity
lodestone
vsloadstone
  • Specialized
1 8.8

A naturally magnetic rock that attracts iron or steel

is the broader mineral form noted for magnetic polarity rather than a single magnet
magnetic iron-ore
vsloadstone
  • Specialized
5.8

A dark rock with much iron that sticks to a magnet and people use to make iron

is the same magnetic mineral named for its role as iron ore

Surface Forms

loadstone singular
loadstones plural

Etymology

Loadstone comes from an old word lode meaning 'way' or 'lead' plus stone, so it was a 'leading stone' used to show a path. That's why a loadstone is a natural magnetic stone that attracts iron and helped sailors find direction.