An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

A silicate mineral of magnesium (Mg₂SiO₄) and iron (Fe₂SiO₄,) found commonly in basalt and in carbonaceous chondrites.

See also: From Ger. Olivin, from olive, because of its olive-green to gray-green color,

• -in equivalent to -ine a noun suffix used in chemical and mineralogical nomenclature.