selenium

noun

se·​le·​ni·​um sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 

: a photosensitive element that occurs in both crystalline and amorphous forms, is obtained chiefly as a by-product in copper refining, and is used especially in glass, semiconductor devices, and alloys see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of selenium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other foods that might (or might not) help include berries, citrus fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, garlic, nuts, oily fish, olive oil and seeds, as these foods contain antioxidants such as vitamin C, omega-3 and selenium, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 2 Jan. 2025

One cup of raw broccoli, for instance, contains magnesium, potassium, selenium, folate, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, nearly 2 grams of protein and close to 2 grams of dietary fiber, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 28 Dec. 2024

One serving contains 3 ounces of shrimp, providing 24 grams of protein, 2 grams of saturated fat, and about 50% of the daily selenium requirement.2627 16. —Merve Ceylan, Health, 10 Dec. 2024

This fish also provides vitamin A, B vitamins, and vitamin D, selenium, potassium, and phosphorus. —Maxine Lipner, Verywell Health, 18 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek selēnē moon, from selas brightness

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing selenium

• selenium cell

Kids Definition

selenium

noun

se·​le·​ni·​um sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 

: an element that is sensitive to light and is used especially in glass, alloys, and electronic devices see element

Medical Definition

selenium

noun

se·​le·​ni·​um sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 

: a nonmetallic photosensitive element that occurs in both crystalline and amorphous forms, is an essential trace element found especially in grains and meat, and is used chiefly in glass, semiconductor devices, and alloys

—symbol Se see Chemical Elements Table, selenosis