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

These nutrients support both bone growth and maintaining bone mineral density. Support bone growth and maintenance: Boron is a trace mineral essential for bone growth and maintenance, and raisins are one of the best food sources of boron. —Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 15 Jan. 2025

The researchers began by testing a glass formed from a mixture of boron, sulfur, and lithium (B2S3 and Li2S). —Ashley Belanger, Ars Technica, 17 Jan. 2025

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

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