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REFERENCE

mineral

n. · adj.
US //ˈmɪnɝəɫ// UK //mˈɪnəɹəl// min·er·al
  1. 1 geological substance (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Science

    a natural substance formed in the earth that is not a plant or animal.

    a naturally occurring inorganic solid with a definite chemical composition and crystalline structure.

    Example

    The museum has a large collection of rare minerals from the local mountains.

    Example

    Geologists identified the sample as a rare silicate mineral, noting its unique crystal habit and resistance to chemical weathering.
  2. 2 nutritional element (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Medicine

    a chemical element like iron or calcium that your body needs to stay healthy.

    an inorganic element essential for the physiological functions of living organisms.

    Example

    Milk is a great source of calcium, which is an important mineral for your bones.

    Example

    The nutritionist recommended a diet rich in essential minerals, specifically targeting magnesium and potassium to support cardiovascular health.
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  1. 3 soft drink (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Informal Dialect

    a sweet, fizzy drink like soda.

    a carbonated non-alcoholic beverage; often used to refer to single-serve portions.

    Example

    Would you like a mineral with your lunch, or just some water?

    Example

    In many Irish households, it is common to offer guests a mineral, such as a lemonade or ginger ale, upon their arrival.

    Teacher's tip

    This usage is specific to Ireland and parts of Africa; in most of the UK, 'mineral' usually refers specifically to sparkling water.
  2. 4 containing minerals (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    made of or containing minerals.

    relating to, containing, or derived from minerals; non-gradable.

    Example

    The hikers stopped to drink from a fresh mineral spring.

    Example

    The region is famous for its mineral wealth, attracting significant investment from international mining conglomerates.
Origin

From Middle English mineral, borrowed from Old French mineral, (French minéral), from Medieval Latin minerale, from minera (“ore”), probably ultimately derived from Latin mina (“ore, mine”).

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