M`ARBLE, n. [L. marmor; Gr. white.] 1. The popular name of any species of calcarious stone or mineral, of a compact texture, and of a beautiful appearance, susceptible of a good polish. The varieties are numerous, and greatly diversified in color. Marble is limestone, or a stone which may be calcined to lime, a carbonate of lime; but limestone is a more general name, comprehending the calcarious stones of an inferior texture, as well as those which admit a fine polish. Marble is much used for statues, busts, pillars, chimney pieces, monuments, &c.2. A little ball of marble or other stone,used by children in play.3. A stone remarkable for some inscription or sculpture.Arundel marbles, Arundelian marbles, marble pieces with a chronicle of the city of Athens inscribed on them; presented to the university of Oxford, by Thomas, earl of Arundel. M`ARBLE, a. Made of marble; as a marble pillar.
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