Loadstone

from WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006)

loadstone
    n 1: a permanent magnet consisting of magnetite that possess
         polarity and has the power to attract as well as to be
         attracted magnetically [syn: {lodestone}, {loadstone}]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Loadstone \Load"stone`\, Lodestone \Lode"stone\, n. [Load, lode
   + stone.] (Min.)
   A piece of magnetite, a magnetic iron ore, possessing
   polarity like a magnetic needle, having the power to attract
   as well as to be attracted magnetically. See {Magnetite}.
   [1913 Webster]

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Magnetite \Mag"net*ite\, n. (Min.)
   An oxide of iron ({Fe3O4}) occurring in isometric crystals,
   also massive, of a black color and metallic luster. It is
   readily attracted by a magnet and sometimes possesses
   polarity, being then called {loadstone}. It is an important
   iron ore. Called also {magnetic iron}.
   [1913 Webster]

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