# mineral

/ˈmɪnɝəɫ/ (US) · /mˈɪnəɹəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mineral
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. geological substance

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- The museum has a large collection of rare minerals from the local mountains.
- Geologists identified the sample as a rare silicate mineral, noting its unique crystal habit and resistance to chemical weathering.

### 2. nutritional element

noun · CEFR B1

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

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

- Milk is a great source of calcium, which is an important mineral for your bones.
- The nutritionist recommended a diet rich in essential minerals, specifically targeting magnesium and potassium to support cardiovascular health.

### 3. soft drink

noun · CEFR B2 · British English · Informal · Dialect

a sweet, fizzy drink like soda.

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

- Would you like a mineral with your lunch, or just some water?
- In many Irish households, it is common to offer guests a mineral, such as a lemonade or ginger ale, upon their arrival.

Teaching tip: This usage is specific to Ireland and parts of Africa; in most of the UK, 'mineral' usually refers specifically to sparkling water.

### 4. containing minerals

adjective · CEFR B2

made of or containing minerals.

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

- The hikers stopped to drink from a fresh mineral spring.
- The region is famous for its mineral wealth, attracting significant investment from international mining conglomerates.

## Examples

- Calcium is an important mineral for strong bones.
- The region is famous for its rich mineral deposits, which include copper and silver.
- Geologists identify each mineral by examining its crystal structure, hardness, and the way it reflects light under a microscope.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.