An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A naturally occurring inorganic solid. The internal crystalline structure of a mineral is controlled by its elemental composition.

Etymology (EN): From M.L. minerale “something mined,” from neuter of mineralis “pertaining to mines,” from minera “mine.”

Etymology (PE): Kâni “mineral,” from kân “mine,” from kandan “to dig” (Mid.Pers. kandan “to dig;” O.Pers. kan- “to dig,” akaniya- “it was dug;” Av. kan- “to dig,” uskən- “to dig out” (→ ex- for prefix us-); cf. Skt. khan- “to dig,” khanati “he digs”).