meerschaum

noun meer·schaum \ˈmir-shəm, -ˌshȯm\

Definition of MEERSCHAUM

: a fine light white clayey mineral that is a hydrous magnesium silicate found chiefly in Asia Minor and is used especially for tobacco pipes

: a tobacco pipe of meerschaum

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German, from Meer sea + Schaum foam

First Known Use: 1784

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