Definition

The useless rock or material that is found with valuable minerals, which does not have any economic value itself.

Example

The miners had to separate the gangue from the precious ore to extract the gold.

Conversation

Did you know that mining often involves separating valuable minerals from gangue?

Yeah, I read that it can be a really complex process.

Exactly! It's interesting how much work goes into finding precious metals.

I agree — understanding the gangue makes it all the more fascinating.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gangue originates from the German word 'Gang', meaning a passage or a way, combined with the suffix '-ue', which is used in various contexts. The term refers to the worthless material that surrounds valuable minerals in ore, essentially the 'way' or 'path' that does not contain the desired substance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gang' as a 'passage' or 'way' that leads to something less valuable, helping you remember that 'gangue' refers to the worthless material found with valuable minerals.

Visually Confused Words