Definition

A yellow-brown mineral that is a type of phosphate containing yttrium.

Example

Xenotime is often found in granitic rocks and is used as a source of yttrium.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of xenotime?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a yellow-brown mineral that contains yttrium phosphate.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about different minerals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Xenotime is formed from "xeno-" (from Greek "xenos", meaning foreign or strange) and "time" (from Greek "timē", meaning honor or value). The word refers to a mineral that is considered foreign in its composition, thus relating to its name.

Memory Tip

Think of 'foreign' ('xeno-') and 'value' ('time') to remember that xenotime refers to a mineral that is valued for its foreign composition.

Visually Confused Words