marl

Definition

A mixed earthy substance, consisting of carbonate of lime, clay, and possibly sand, in very variable proportions, and accordingly designated as calcareous, clayey, or sandy.

Etymology

From Middle English marle, from Old French marle, from Late Latin margila, diminutive of marga (“marl”). Doublet of marla.

Example Sentences

• "... uneasie steps / Over the burning Marle, not like those steps / On Heavens Azure..."
• "Mr. Greenshields was the contractor selected to build the embankment, and over a hundred thousand tons of marl and moss compacted with brushwood were used in its construction."
• "Important marl and marine-shell deposits are worked in Michigan, Virginia, and Florida."