Word Study
hafnium
CIDE DICTIONARY
hafnium, n.
A metallic element of atomic number 72 present together with zirconium to the extent of 1% to 5% in zirconium minerals. It is a poisonous, ductile metal with a brilliant silver luster, has an atomic weight of 178.49, and has a high melting point (2227norium. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
hafnium, n. Chem. a silvery lustrous metallic element occurring naturally with zirconium, used in tungsten alloys for filaments and electrodes.
Usage
Symb.: Hf.
Etymology
mod.L f. Hafnia Copenhagen
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