kaolin

/ˈkeɪ.ə.lɪn/ Chinese Origin Materials

Original Word

高岭

Mandarin (Gāolǐng)

Entered English

18th century

First recorded usage in English

The Story Behind "kaolin"

From 'Gāolǐng' (高岭), literally 'high ridge', a hill in Jiangxi province where this white clay was first mined. Used in making porcelain and later in medicine and cosmetics.

Example Usage

"Kaolin clay is commonly used in face masks and skincare products."

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