{ As"phalt (?), As*phal"tum (?), }
n. [Gr. ?, of eastern origin: cf. F. asphalte.]
1.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.
2.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.
Asphalt stone, Asphalt rock, a
limestone found impregnated with asphalt.