cinnabar

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a heavy reddish mineral consisting of mercuric sulfide; the chief source of mercury
  2. noun large red-and-black European moth; larvae feed on leaves of ragwort; introduced into United States to control ragwort
  3. adjective of a vivid red to reddish-orange color

Etymology

First attested in the mid-15th century. From Middle English cynabare, from Old French cinabre, from Latin cinnabaris, from Ancient Greek κιννάβαρι (kinnábari), of unknown origin.

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