ferruginous

adjective

1
: of, relating to, or containing iron
a ferruginous soil
2
: resembling iron rust in color

Examples of ferruginous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Derivation and meaning: The name Sienna is derived from the English word sienna, referring to a kind of ferruginous earth used as a pigment in painting. Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 20 Jan. 2025 Unlike many of Arizona's birds, cactus ferruginous pygmy owls do not migrate or fly great distances. Lindsey Botts, The Arizona Republic, 20 Feb. 2022

Word History

Etymology

Latin ferrugineus, ferruginus, from ferrugin-, ferrugo iron rust, from ferrum

First Known Use

circa 1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ferruginous was circa 1661

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Cite this Entry

“Ferruginous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ferruginous. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

ferruginous

adjective
1
: of, relating to, or containing iron
2
: resembling iron rust in color
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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