menilite Min.
(ˈmɛnɪlaɪt)
[a. F. ménilite (H. B. de Saussure, 1795), from Ménil(montant), a quarter of Paris where it is found: see -ite.]
A variety of opal of a dull greyish or brownish colour, occurring in kidney-shaped masses.
| [1801 Encycl. Brit. Suppl. II. 205/2 Pitchstone. Menelites... A specimen of Pitchstone from Mesnil-montant near Paris..261 (Index to Mineralogy) Menalites.] 1811 Pinkerton Petral. I. 550 As common flint becomes menilite, from the unctuous and magnesian marl in which it is deposited. |
| attrib. 1829 Ure Geol. 324 The menilite silex. |