trace element

noun

: a chemical element present in minute quantities

especially : a micronutrient (such as iodine, iron, and zinc) with an optimum daily intake of typically less than 100 milligrams a day

Examples of trace element in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Zinc for the retina An important part of the eye is the retina—and the trace element zinc is important for keeping it strong. —Maria Berentzen, Vogue, 12 Dec. 2024

Zircon trace element evidence for early hydrothermal activity on Mars. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2024

Everything from the climate to the soil leaves behind trace elements, creating a unique profile that Oritain calls an Origin Fingerprint. —Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 10 July 2024

According to the National Institutes of Health, manganese is an essential trace element that is naturally present in many foods and available as a dietary supplement. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 30 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

trace element

noun

: a chemical element present in tiny amounts

especially : one that is used by a living thing and is considered essential to the functions necessary for life

Medical Definition

trace element

noun

: a chemical element present in minute quantities

especially : a micronutrient (as iodine, iron, and zinc) with an optimum daily intake of typically less than 100 milligrams