- Mineral pitch, Jews' pitch, or compact native bitumen.
It is brittle, of a black or brown color and high luster on a surface
of fracture; it melts and burns when heated, leaving no residue. It
occurs on the surface and shores of the Dead Sea, which is therefore
called Asphaltites, or the Asphaltic Lake. It is found also in many
parts of Asia, Europe, and America. See Bitumen. - A composition of bitumen, pitch, lime, and gravel, used
for forming pavements, and as a water-proof cement for bridges, roofs,
etc.; asphaltic cement. Artificial asphalt is prepared from coal tar,
lime, sand, etc.
Definition
[ n.]