mercury

mer-cu-ry · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A heavy, silvery-white metallic element that is liquid at room temperature; chemical symbol Hg, atomic number 80.

  2. 2.

    (Astronomy) The smallest planet in the solar system and the one closest to the Sun.

  3. 3.

    (Mythology) The Roman god of commerce, travel, and communication, equivalent to the Greek Hermes.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    mercury poisoning — toxic effects from exposure to mercury
  • •
    mercury rising — an increase in temperature (figuratively, rising tension)

Related words

See also: element, planet, quicksilver, thermometer
Synonyms: quicksilver

Etymology

From Latin Mercurius, the Roman god of trade and messenger of the gods. The chemical element was named for the god due to its fluid, quick-moving nature. The planet was named for its rapid movement across the sky.