Asphaltum
[æs'fæltәm]
Definition
(n.) Mineral pitch, Jews' pitch, or compact native bitumen. It is brittle, of a black or brown color and high luster on a surface of fracture; it melts and burns when heated, leaving no residue. It occurs on the surface and shores of the Dead Sea, which is therefore called Asphaltites, or the Asphaltic Lake. It is found also in many parts of Asia, Europe, and America. See Bitumen.
(n.) A composition of bitumen, pitch, lime, and gravel, used for forming pavements, and as a water-proof cement for bridges, roofs, etc.; asphaltic cement. Artificial asphalt is prepared from coal tar, lime, sand, etc.
Checker: Wade
Synonyms and Synonymous
n. Native bitumen, mineral pitch, Jew's pitch.
Checked by Gilbert
Definition
n. a black or dark-brown hard bituminous substance anciently used as a cement and now for paving cisterns water-pipes &c.—v.t. Asphalt′ to lay or cover with asphalt.—adj. Asphalt′ic.
Editor: Tracy
Examples
- It yields quantities of asphaltum; fragments of it lie all about its banks; this stuff gives the place something of an unpleasant smell. Mark Twain. The Innocents Abroad.
- In 1827 he discarded the use of silver salts, and employed a resin known as Bitumen of Judea (asphaltum). Edward W. Byrn. The Progress of Invention in the Nineteenth Century.
- And this ingenious Napoleon paves the streets of his great cities with a smooth, compact composition of asphaltum and sand. Mark Twain. The Innocents Abroad.
- The conductors having been drawn in, a preparation of asphaltum and linseed oil was forced into the piping to serve as insulation. Various. The Wonder Book of Knowledge.
- The layer of cement, asphaltum or gas tar, which should cover the ground below the joists, is to protect the room from the moisture and warmth of the earth. William K. David. Secrets of Wise Men, Chemists and Great Physicians.
Editor: Tracy