Pronunciation: [mˈi͡əst͡ʃa͡ʊm] (IPA) 
The word "meerschaum" is a rare and unique spelling that can be tricky to pronounce. It is a German word, meaning sea foam, and is often used to describe a type of soft white mineral used for carving pipes. Interestingly, the pronunciation of "meerschaum" is not intuitive - it is pronounced "meer-shawm" with the "ch" sound being the same as in "loch" or "Bach". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled [mɪərʃɔːm].
Meerschaum is a noun referring to a white to yellowish mineral that is composed mainly of hydrated magnesium silicate. It is also known as sepiolite or magnesite. Meerschaum is a soft and light material, easily carved into various shapes, and has been traditionally used to make smoking pipes. In this context, it typically refers to a tobacco pipe made from this mineral.
The word "meerschaum" is originally derived from the German language, translating to "sea foam," owing to its appearance resembling the frothy surf on the waves. It is primarily found in the Mediterranean region and parts of Turkey, where high-quality meerschaum deposits are known. Due to its unique porous structure, meerschaum pipes have been favored by pipe smokers for their ability to absorb impurities and yield a cool, smooth smoke.
These pipes are highly regarded for their intricate carvings and are often regarded as collectible art pieces. The color of meerschaum pipes may range from white to a golden hue with time and usage, attaining a patina that adds to their beauty and value. Meerschaum pipes are also known for their lightweight nature compared to other materials traditionally used for smoking pipes, such as briar or clay.
Overall, meerschaum is a unique mineral known for its softness and porous structure, often employed in the creation of high-quality tobacco pipes prized for their craftsmanship and smoking experience.
Magnesian earth combined with silex, manufactured into the bowls of tobacco-pipes; a tobacco-pipe made of the same.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "meerschaum" has its etymology rooted in German. It is a compound word formed by combining two German words: "meer" means "sea" and "schaum" means "foam" or "froth". Thus, "meerschaum" translates to "sea foam" in English. The word refers to the material known as meerschaum, which is a soft white mineral that is often carved into pipes or other decorative objects. The term originated in the 18th century and reflects the light and frothy appearance of the mineral. Meerschaum is derived from the German word "meerschaumstein", where "stein" means "stone".
