silica

noun

sil·​i·​ca ˈsi-li-kə 

: the dioxide of silicon SiO₂ occurring in crystalline, amorphous, and impure forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand respectively)

Examples of silica in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Key ingredients: Vitamin E, silica | Size: 0.25 oz., 0.75 oz., 1.5 oz. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 27 Feb. 2025

The formula is packed with keratins and proteins to fortify the nails, while key ingredients like cellulose, silica, celery seed extract, and camellia oil help smooth and strengthen. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 15 Feb. 2025

In the months that followed, first responders and residents were exposed to a hazardous mix of asbestos, silica dust, heavy metals and other dangerous substances. —Tony Briscoe, Los Angeles Times, 30 Jan. 2025

The lower level is rich in basalt, while the upper level contains a lot of silica. —Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 3 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin silic-, silex hard stone, flint

First Known Use

circa 1801, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing silica

• silica gel
• vitreous silica

Rhymes for silica

• basilica

Kids Definition

silica

noun

sil·​i·​ca ˈsil-i-kə 

: a compound that consists of the dioxide of silicon and occurs in various forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand)

Medical Definition

silica

noun

sil·​i·​ca ˈsil-i-kə 

: the dioxide of silicon SiO₂ that is used as an ingredient of simethicone and that occurs naturally in crystalline, amorphous, and impure forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand respectively)

called also silicon dioxide