rottenstone

[ rot-n-stohn ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a friable stone resulting from the decomposition of a siliceous limestone, used as a powder for polishing metals.

rottenstone

/ ˈrɒtənˌstəʊn /

a much-weathered limestone, rich in silica: used in powdered form for polishing metal

First recorded in 1670–80; rotten + stone

The unpainted surfaces will be kept clean and bright with rottenstone and oil or "Putz-pomade."

Polishing is effected by wooden wheels fed with wet pumice-powder and rottenstone and by brushes fed with moistened putty-powder.

Tripoli (and rottenstone) are used in polishing powders and scouring soaps as well as for filter blocks and many other purposes.

April 23, 2024inveterate

[in-vet-er-it ]

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