Skip to main content
Dictionary
Store
Blog
World
Help
Advertise
Chat
System Status
Information Collection Notice
Trademark Concerns
reCAPTCHA Privacy
Terms of Service
reCAPTCHA Terms
Privacy Policy
Accessibility
Report a Bug
Data Request
Contact Us
Security
DMCA
© 1999–2026 Urban Dictionary ®
Mugs
Tees
Hoodies
Pro Customization
Create unique products with your own words and definitions
Preview
Personalize Your Design
Your Word
Your Definition
A subfield of biotechnology that uses living organisms—like bacteria, fungi, or plants—to extract, concentrate, and process metals from ores, tailings, or electronic waste. Also called "bioleaching" or "phytomining," it's a greener alternative to smelting. Certain microbes can oxidize metals, making them soluble for recovery, while some plants ("hyperaccumulators") can draw metals like nickel or gold from soil into their tissues, which are then harvested and incinerated to yield "bio-ore."
Text fits
Save
Cancel