1. Plural of novaculite; fine-grained, hard sedimentary rocks composed mainly of microcrystalline quartz, used historically for whetstones and sharpening tools.
Usage: geology; technical; plural form

Examples

• Novaculites were prized by ancient toolmakers for their ability to sharpen blades.
• The geological survey identified several deposits of novaculites in the region.
• Arkansans historically quarried novaculites for use as whetstones.
• These novaculites have a density and hardness that make them ideal for precision sharpening.
• The fine texture of novaculites allows them to produce a keen edge on metal tools.