(1) A fibrous amphibole; used for making fireproof articles; inhaling fibers can cause asbestosis or lung cancer
WiktionaryText
Etymology
From from + .
Noun
Any of several fibrous mineral forms of magnesium silicate, used for fireproofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings, and chemical filters; The small fibres can cause cancer when lodged in the lungs.
