Definition of the word zinc

The word "zinc" has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "calx zincum," which means "zinc oxide." This Latin phrase was derived from the Greek phrase "ζάγκο" (zagō), which referred to the zinc ore calamine, a mixture of zinc sulfate and iron sulfide. The Greek phrase is thought to be related to the Persian word "sang," meaning "stone" or "ore." The Latin phrase "calx zincum" was later shortened to "zincum," which was used in alchemical and metallurgical contexts. The word "zinc" has been adopted into various languages, including English, and has been used to refer to the metal since the 15th century.