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

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

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

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