Lodestone

usgb/ˈləʊdstəʊn/
noun

A naturally magnetized piece of the mineral magnetite.

In ancient times, mariners used lodestone as a primitive form of compass.
Visual representation of "lodestone" - A naturally magnetized piece of the mineral magnetite.

Often appears as...

  • natural lodestone
  • lodestone compass

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "lodestone"
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Ancient Navigation

Lodestone was critical in early navigation methods before modern compasses.

Illustration for Ancient Navigation
Explorers might have found their way thanks to a piece of lodestone on their ships.
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Mineralogy Context

Use 'lodestone' to refer to magnetite when discussing magnetic properties in geology or science.

Illustration for Mineralogy Context
The geologist explained how a lodestone could align itself with Earth's magnetic field.
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Magnetic Metaphor

'Lodestone' metaphorically represents a strong, natural force of attraction.

Illustration for Magnetic Metaphor
Her charismatic personality was a lodestone for social gatherings.
Visual representation of the word "Lodestone"

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