perlite

noun

per·​lite ˈpər-ˌlīt How to pronounce perlite (audio)
: volcanic glass that has a concentric structure, appears as if composed of concretions, is usually grayish and sometimes spherulitic, and when heated expands to form a lightweight aggregate used especially in concrete and plaster and as a medium for potting plants
perlitic adjective

Examples of perlite in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Choose a container with good drainage and fill it with a mixture of potting soil, sand, and perlite. Grace Haynes, Southern Living, 11 Mar. 2024 In addition to sphagnum peat moss, however, the lightweight potting mix contains humus and perlite, which help provide the necessary aeration and drainage for cacti and succulents. Renee Freemon Mulvihill, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Jan. 2024 Plant the seeds in a potting mix or soil with an equal distribution of peat, perlite, and volcanic rock. Southern Living Editors, Southern Living, 19 Feb. 2024 It's made up of sphagnum peat moss, along with vermiculite and perlite. Chris McKeown, The Enquirer, 17 Feb. 2024 Thoroughly hose down the piece, and using a wire brush, firmly brush down the entire surface to remove mold lines and reveal the stone-like look of the perlite. Kenneth Setzer, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2024 In a new pot (preferably 2-4 inches larger in diameter), add a fresh potting mix that contains coco coir, perlite, or vermiculite for optimum drainage. Kristin Guy, Sunset Magazine, 10 Jan. 2024 Start by mixing equal parts Portland cement, perlite, and peat moss in a large plastic container. Kenneth Setzer, Miami Herald, 30 Jan. 2024 Without soil, hydroponic systems grow plants indoors in mediums such as lava rock or perlite and nutrient-rich water. Debbie Arrington, Sacramento Bee, 30 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'perlite.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

French, from perle pearl

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perlite was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near perlite

Cite this Entry

“Perlite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perlite. Accessed 16 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

perlite

noun
per·​lite ˈpər-ˌlīt How to pronounce perlite (audio)
: a glassy mineral of volcanic origin that when expanded by heat forms a lightweight material capable of absorbing liquids (as water)

More from Merriam-Webster on perlite

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