Is siliceous a common word?

No, it is uncommon in daily English. You will mostly see it in science, geology, or academic writing.

What is the difference between siliceous and silicious?

Siliceous is the standard word for 'containing silica'. Silicious is rare and usually not used in modern English.

Can I use siliceous in business writing?

Only if you are writing about science, mining, soil, or materials. In general business writing, it may sound too technical.

← Dictionary

siliceous

/sɪˈlɪʃ.əs/

IELTSAcademic

adjective

Containing or made of silica. It is often used in geology, chemistry, and soil science.

The rock is siliceous and very hard.
Siliceous sand is common near the coast.

Adinary Nuance

Siliceous is more specific than words like stony or rocky. It points to silica, so writers use it in science and geology. It sounds technical, not everyday. If you mean simply 'made of stone,' a simpler word is better.

In other languages

Vietnamese: giàu silic
Spanish: silíceo
Chinese: 硅质的
Japanese: 珪質の
Korean: 실리카질의

Etymology

From Latin siliceus, from silex meaning 'flint' or 'hard stone'. It entered English in the 17th century, mainly in scientific writing.

Common phrases

siliceous rocksiliceous soilsiliceous material

Synonyms

silicic silica-rich

Related words

silica quartz mineral sedimentary

Frequently asked questions

Is siliceous a common word?: No, it is uncommon in daily English. You will mostly see it in science, geology, or academic writing.
What is the difference between siliceous and silicious?: Siliceous is the standard word for 'containing silica'. Silicious is rare and usually not used in modern English.
Can I use siliceous in business writing?: Only if you are writing about science, mining, soil, or materials. In general business writing, it may sound too technical.