perlite

noun

per·​lite ˈpər-ˌlīt How to pronounce perlite (audio)
: volcanic glass that has a concentric structure, appears as if composed of concretions, is usually grayish and sometimes spherulitic, and when heated expands to form a lightweight aggregate used especially in concrete and plaster and as a medium for potting plants
perlitic
ˌpər-ˈli-tik How to pronounce perlite (audio)
adjective

Examples of perlite 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.
Improve soil drainage by using amendments like perlite or large bark. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 8 June 2026 Be careful not to over water, set your plant pots on drip trays and add perlite to the soil to help with drainage. — Dan Simms, USA Today, 15 May 2026 During winter storage, make sure they are covered with sand, sawdust, peat moss, or perlite. — Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 22 May 2026 To create your own mix, use a combination of two parts potting soil and one part perlite or coarse sand to grow your spider plant in. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for perlite

Word History

Etymology

French, from perle pearl

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of perlite was in 1833

Rhymes for perlite

See All Rhymes for perlite

Browse Nearby Words

Perlis
perlite
perlitic
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Cite this Entry

“Perlite.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perlite. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

perlite

noun
per·​lite ˈpər-ˌlīt How to pronounce perlite (audio)
: a glassy mineral of volcanic origin that when expanded by heat forms a lightweight material capable of absorbing liquids (as water)

More from Merriam-Webster on perlite

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about perlite

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