radon

noun

ra·​don ˈrā-ˌdän How to pronounce radon (audio)
: a heavy radioactive gaseous element formed by the decay of radium see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of radon 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.
Besides an examination of the house, there may be other inspections required — perhaps for radon or termites. Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 6 Mar. 2025 The process includes testing properties for substances like lead, mold, radon and asbestos. Celia Fernandez,tasia Jensen, CNBC, 4 Mar. 2025 Other risks are a family history of lung cancer or radon exposure. Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 25 Nov. 2024 Another important pre-move-in step is to make sure all of the detectors — smoke, carbon monoxide and radon — are operational. Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 23 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for radon

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary, from radium

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of radon was in 1918

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Radon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/radon. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

radon

noun
ra·​don ˈrā-ˌdän How to pronounce radon (audio)
: a heavy radioactive gaseous element formed by the breaking apart of radium atoms see element

Medical Definition

radon

noun
ra·​don ˈrā-dän How to pronounce radon (audio)
: a heavy radioactive gaseous element of the group of inert gases formed by disintegration of radium and used similarly to radium in medicine
symbol Rn

called also radium emanation

see Chemical Elements Table

More from Merriam-Webster on radon

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