Definition

A mineral composed of barium sulfate, often used in drilling fluids and as a pigment.

Example

The drilling company used barytes to increase the density of the mud.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of barytes?

Yeah, isn't it used in drilling?

Exactly! It's pretty interesting how it works.

Totally! I read that it's also used in making paint.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barytes → The word 'barytes' comes from the Greek 'barys' (meaning heavy) and the suffix '-ites' (used to denote minerals or rocks). Thus, 'barytes' refers to a heavy mineral, specifically barium sulfate.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for heavy ('barys') to remember that 'barytes' is a heavy mineral.

Visually Confused Words