as·bes·tos ( s-b s t s, z-)n. Either of two incombustible, chemical-resistant, fibrous mineral forms of impure magnesium silicate, used for fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings, and chemical filters. adj. Of, made of, or containing one or the other of these two mineral forms. [Middle English asbestus, from Latin asbestos, mineral or gem, from Greek, mineral or gem, unslaked lime, from asbestos, unquenchable : a-, not; see a-1 + sbennunai, sbes-, to quench.] as·bes tine (-t n), as·bestic (-tk) adj. |
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