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

Dobos says that’s likely due to the formula’s silica, the stuff used in many makeup primers that fills in large pores and crevices to create a smooth canvas. —Nicola Dall'asen, Allure, 7 May 2025

Antioxidants, silica, vitamin E, and thermal spring water are featured too; plus, iron oxides which deliver a universal tint suitable for most skin types. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 2 May 2025

Mandler had been running a laboratory study focused on a spike in lung disease linked to silica dust in the countertop industry. —Will Stone, NPR, 2 May 2025

In addition, the administration delayed a new rule set to go into effect April 14 that would cut in half exposure limits of silica dust, a driver of resurgent black lung that now affects one in five coal miners in Appalachia. —Chris Kenning, USA Today, 1 May 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