Dictionary entry

Steatite

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Ste″a‐tite (–tīt), n. [Gr. στέαρ, στέατοσ, fat, tallow: cf. F. stéatite.] (Min.) A massive variety of talc, of a grayish green or brown color. It forms extensive beds, and is quarried for fireplaces and for coarse utensils. Called also potstone, lard stone, and soapstone.