Meaning & Definition of word "Radium"

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!