Word Study
laterite
CIDE DICTIONARY
laterite, n. [L. later brick, tile: cf. F. latérite.].
An argillaceous sandstone, of a red color, and much seamed; -- found in India. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
laterite, n. a red or yellow ferruginous clay, friable and hardening in air, used for making roads in the tropics.
Derivative
lateritic adj.
Etymology
L later brick + -ITE(1)
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