boron

noun

bo·​ron ˈbȯr-ˌän 

: a metalloid chemical element that is found in nature only in combination and that is used especially in borosilicate glass and detergents see Chemical Elements Table

boronic

bȯr-ˈä-nik 

adjective

Examples of boron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mining giant Rio Tinto is experimenting with ways to extract lithium that exists in boron mining waste, and a Canadian startup is working to recover rare earths from tin-mine tailings. —Vince Beiser, WIRED, 30 Nov. 2024

If needed, information on applying boron as a nutrient can be obtained by doing a search for boron deficiency in palms. —Tom MacCubbin, Orlando Sentinel, 30 Nov. 2024

Built around a large neodymium iron boron magnet, the 40mm diameter drivers have a wide dynamic range and nimble transient response. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024

Speaking of biodiversity, the Biden administration has approved a massive lithium and boron mine in Nevada despite concerns from some environmentalists that the project could kill off an endangered wildflower, according to the Washington Post. —Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borax + -on (as in carbon)

First Known Use

1812, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing boron

• boron carbide

Kids Definition

boron

noun

bo·​ron ˈbō(ə)r-ˌän 

ˈbȯ(ə)r-

: a metalloid element found in nature only in combination (as in borax) see element

Medical Definition

boron

noun

bo·​ron ˈbō(ə)r-ˌän, ˈbȯ(ə)r- 

: a trivalent metalloid element found in nature only in combination and used in metallurgy and in composite structural materials

—symbol B see Chemical Elements Table

boronic

bȯr-ˈän-ik, bōr- 

adjective