selenium

noun

se·​le·​ni·​um sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 

: a photosensitive element that occurs in both crystalline and amorphous forms, is obtained chiefly as a by-product in copper refining, and is used especially in glass, semiconductor devices, and alloys see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of selenium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Eggs provide nearly every essential vitamin and mineral, including vitamin A, B12 and selenium, along with high-quality protein, according to the doctor. —Khloe Quill, Fox News, 20 Feb. 2025

Shrimp Shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food rich in vitamin B12 and selenium. —Lindsey Desoto, Health, 19 Feb. 2025

The brand's signature prebiotic thermal spring water is rich in selenium, a powerful natural antioxidant known for its soothing and protective properties. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 Jan. 2025

Food sources high in selenium are:6 Beef Brazil nuts Pork Sardines Tuna Zinc Zinc is an essential nutrient for thyroid hormone production. —Jamie Johnson, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek selēnē moon, from selas brightness

First Known Use

1818, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing selenium

• selenium cell

Rhymes for selenium

• asplenium
• delphinium
• perineum
• proscenium
• ruthenium
• vaccinium
• rhenium

Kids Definition

selenium

noun

se·​le·​ni·​um sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 

: an element that is sensitive to light and is used especially in glass, alloys, and electronic devices see element

Medical Definition

selenium

noun

se·​le·​ni·​um sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 

: a nonmetallic photosensitive element that occurs in both crystalline and amorphous forms, is an essential trace element found especially in grains and meat, and is used chiefly in glass, semiconductor devices, and alloys

—symbol Se see Chemical Elements Table, selenosis