fluoride

noun

often attributive
1
: a compound of fluorine
2
: the monovalent anion of fluorine

Examples of fluoride in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Water fluoridation has become controversial in recent years because of studies that found negative effects from drinking high levels of fluoride, though dentists and public health experts say that levels used to prevent tooth decay in the U.S. aren’t high enough to harm children. Meg Wingerter, Denver Post, 9 June 2025 While there are alternative sources of fluoride that people can purchase, the cost may be out of reach for many families, Latimer says. Chantelle Lee, Time, 6 June 2025 Excessive amounts of fluoride can cause white or sometimes brown marks on teeth called fluorosis. Erika Edwards, NBC news, 30 May 2025 So far, Utah and Florida are the only states that have banned fluoride from drinking water. Adrianna Rodriguez, USA Today, 22 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fluoride

Word History

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fluoride was in 1826

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fluoride.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fluoride. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

fluoride

noun
flu·​o·​ride
ˈflu̇(-ə)r-ˌīd
: a compound of fluorine with another element or chemical group

Medical Definition

fluoride

noun
flu·​o·​ride ˈflu̇(-ə)r-ˌīd How to pronounce fluoride (audio)
1
: a compound of fluorine with a more electropositive element or radical
2
: the monovalent anion of fluorine
fluoride adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on fluoride

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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