vermiculite (vermikulit)

[L. vermiculus, a worm, + -ite2.] In mineral., one of a group of hydrous silicates having a micaceous structure, and in most cases derived from the common micas by alteration. When heated nearly to redne they exfoliate largely, and some kinds project out with a vermicular motion, as if they were a ma of small worms (whence the name). vermiculose (ver-mik'ū-los), a. [ vermiculous (ver-mik'ū-lus), a. Same as ver miculose. vermiculus (ver-miku-lus), n.; pl. vermiculi (-li). [L. vermiculus, a little worm: see ver micule.] 1. A little worm or grub.-2t. Specifically, the kermes or cochineal-insect; also, its product, known as worm - dye. See vermil ion, 1. Also vermiculum.