fluorine

noun

fluo·​rine ˈflu̇r-ˌēn 

ˈflȯr-

: a nonmetallic gaseous chemical element of the halogen group with atomic number 9 that readily forms compounds with almost all other elements including some noble gases see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of fluorine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The front element has an anti-smudge fluorine coating, so fingerprints wipe away easily and water drops bead right off. —PCMAG, 2 Dec. 2024

Fluorides are compounds that contain both fluorine and another element, like a metal. —Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 16 Sep. 2024

This technology measures the carbon isotope ratios directly within the molecule, specifically where the carbon is bonded to the fluorine, without breaking the molecule apart. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 9 Aug. 2024

Because the mix of carbon isotopes bonding to each fluorine atom is unique to how the chemical was manufactured, this information can be used like a fingerprint to trace a chemical. —Alexandra Harrell, Sourcing Journal, 9 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from New Latin fluor

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

fluorine

noun

flu·​o·​rine

ˈflu̇(-ə)r-ˌēn,

-ən

: a nonmetallic element that is normally found alone as a pale yellowish flammable irritating poisonous gas having two atoms per molecule see element

Medical Definition

fluorine

noun

fluo·​rine ˈflu̇(-ə)r-ˌēn  -ən 

: a nonmetallic monovalent halogen element that is normally a pale yellowish flammable irritating toxic gas

—symbol F see Chemical Elements Table