{ , n. [ Gr. nefe`lh cloud: cf. F. néphéline. Cf. Nebula. ] (Min.) A mineral occuring at Vesuvius, in glassy hexagonal crystals; also elsewhere, in grayish or greenish masses having a greasy luster, as the variety elaeolite. It is a silicate of aluminia, soda, and potash. [ 1913 Webster ]
(n) a whitish mineral consisting of sodium aluminum silicate or potassium aluminum silicate in crystalline form; used in the manufacture of ceramics and enamels, Syn. nephelite