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 And, fun fact: pistachios are the lowest calorie nut around. Walnuts Walnuts are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin B, and trace elements. Jeanne Ballion, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024 When juxtaposed with neutrals, its trace elements of plum pop out without hogging the spotlight. Tim Nelson, Architectural Digest, 16 Oct. 2024 Calcium is a trace element that helps plants flower and fruit, so adding it to soil can benefit a vegetable garden. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Sep. 2024 Not a trace element there of anything to do with the South or poverty or the law. Neal B. Freeman, National Review, 2 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for trace element 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trace element.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trace element was in 1932

Dictionary Entries Near trace element

Cite this Entry

“Trace element.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trace%20element. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on trace element

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