(Encyclopedia) olivineolivineŏlĭvˈēn [key], an iron-magnesium silicate mineral, (Mg,Fe)2SiO4, crystallizing in the orthorhombic system. It is a common constituent of magnesium-rich, silica-poor…
actressBorn: 5/2/1952Birthplace: Buffalo, New York Although probably best-known for her Emmy Award-winning portrayal of Cybill Shepherd's wisecracking best friend Maryann Thorpe on the hit…
(Encyclopedia) Australian literature, the literature of Australia. Because the vast majority of early Australian settlers were transported prisoners, the beginnings of Australian literature were oral…
(Encyclopedia) EquisetophytaEquisetophytaĕkˌwəsətŏfˈətə [key], small division of the plant kingdom consisting of the plants commonly called horsetails and scouring rushes. Equisetum, the only living…
(Encyclopedia) garnet, name applied to a group of isomorphic minerals crystallizing in the cubic system. They are used chiefly as gems and as abrasives (as in garnet paper). The garnets are double…
(Encyclopedia) bird of paradise, common name for any of 43 species of medium- to crow-sized passerine birds of New Guinea and the adjacent islands, known for the bright plumage, elongated tail…
actressBorn: 5/31/1961Birthplace: Rochester, Minnesota A professional dancer who trained with the American Ballet Theatre and other prestigious companies, Thompson became a familiar face through…
(Encyclopedia) Lincoln, city and district (1991 pop. 79,980), county seat of Lincolnshire, E England, in the Parts of Kesteven, on the Witham River. Located at the junction of the Roman Fosse Way and…
(Encyclopedia) Rugby, town (1991 pop. 59,039), Warwickshire, central England. An important railroad junction and engineering center, Rugby is the seat of one of England's most esteemed public schools…
