Meaning & Definition of word "Radium"
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Radium
/ˈreɪ.di.əm/
noun:
- 1. A highly radioactive element with the symbol Ra and atomic number 88, found in trace amounts in uranium and thorium ores and used in medical applications and radiation therapy.
- Example: Radium was once used in paint for watch dials due to its glow-in-the-dark properties.
- 2. A rare earth metal known for its radioactive properties, particularly as an alpha-emitter.
- Example: The discovery of radium led to new advancements in the field of radiation therapy for cancer treatment.
- 3. Historically, radium was utilized in various consumer products before the dangers of its radioactivity became known.
- Example: After the harmful effects of radium exposure were recognized, many radium-based products were banned.
Etymology
The name 'radium' comes from the Latin word 'radius', meaning 'ray', reflecting its radioactivity.
Common Phrases and Expressions
radium girls:
Refers to female factory workers who were exposed to radium in the early 20th century and suffered severe health effects.
radium therapy:
A medical treatment using radium for cancer patients.
Related Words
uranium:
A naturally occurring radioactive element used as fuel in nuclear reactors.
thorium:
A weakly radioactive metallic element that can be used in nuclear applications.
Slang Meanings of radium
Meaning: Glow-in-the-dark
Example Sentence: That paint glows like it has radium in it!
Meaning: Dangerous yet fascinating
Example Sentence: Those old radium toys are creepy but rad!