1.
[syn: lodestone, loadstone]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Loadstone \Load"stone`\, Lodestone \Lode"stone\, n. [Load, lode
+ stone.] (Min.)
A piece of magnetite, a magnetic iron ore, possessing
polarity like a magnetic needle, having the power to attract
as well as to be attracted magnetically. See Magnetite.
[1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Magnetite \Mag"net*ite\, n. (Min.)
An oxide of iron (Fe3O4) occurring in isometric crystals,
also massive, of a black color and metallic luster. It is
readily attracted by a magnet and sometimes possesses
polarity, being then called loadstone. It is an important
iron ore. Called also magnetic iron.
[1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
loadstone
n 1: a permanent magnet consisting of magnetite that possess
polarity and has the power to attract as well as to be
attracted magnetically [syn: lodestone, loadstone]