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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
Manganese is an essential trace element that is found commonly in the environment and is abundant in many foods.
—
Melissa Nieves, Verywell Health, 23 Jan. 2025
For example, copper tripeptide delivers essential trace elements, like copper, to the skin to promote healing and repair.
—
Hannah Coates, Vogue, 3 Dec. 2024
Minerals and trace elements in the water must also come from the original underground water source for it to be labeled mineral water.
—
Sherri Gordon, Health, 2 Jan. 2025
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
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Word History
First Known Use
1932, in the meaning defined above
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 9 Feb. 2025.
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
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about trace element
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