steatite Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a soft heavy compact variety of talc having a soapy feel; used to make hearths and tabletops and ornaments
    soap-rock; soapstone; soaprock.

WordNet

Ste"a*tite noun
Etymology
Gr. , , fat, tallow: cf. F. stéatite.
Definitions
  1. (Min.) A massive variety of talc, of a grayish green or brown color. It forms extensive beds, and is quarried for fireplaces and for coarse utensils. Called also potstone, lard stone, and soapstone.

Webster 1913