selenium
noun
se·le·ni·um
sə-ˈlē-nē-əm 
: a photosensitive element that occurs in both crystalline and amorphous forms, is obtained chiefly as a by-product in copper refining, and is used especially in glass, semiconductor devices, and alloys see Chemical Elements Table
Examples of selenium in a Sentence
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However, even high-quality 2D materials can have atomic defects, like missing sulfur or selenium atoms, which affect electrical behavior.
—
Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 14 Sep. 2025
Sunflower seeds Sunflower seeds are copper and selenium-dense, as well as rich in vitamin E, vitamin B9, and B5, which are all vital for energy production and healthy skin, hair, and nails.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 12 Sep. 2025
Nuts and Seeds Nuts and seeds pack important nutrients like magnesium, zinc, selenium, and vitamin E.
—Merve Ceylan, Health, 4 Sep. 2025
The project’s first phase involved removing selenium contaminants from the creek while also capturing pollutants from stormwater runoff.
—Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 2 Sep. 2025
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Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 14 Sep. 2025
Sunflower seeds Sunflower seeds are copper and selenium-dense, as well as rich in vitamin E, vitamin B9, and B5, which are all vital for energy production and healthy skin, hair, and nails.
—Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 12 Sep. 2025
Nuts and Seeds Nuts and seeds pack important nutrients like magnesium, zinc, selenium, and vitamin E.
—Merve Ceylan, Health, 4 Sep. 2025
The project’s first phase involved removing selenium contaminants from the creek while also capturing pollutants from stormwater runoff.
—Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 2 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for selenium
Cite this Entry
“Selenium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/selenium. Accessed 19 Sep. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
selenium
noun
se·le·ni·um
sə-ˈlē-nē-əm
: an element that is sensitive to light and is used especially in glass, alloys, and electronic devices see element
Medical Definition
selenium
noun
se·le·ni·um
sə-ˈlē-nē-əm
: a nonmetallic photosensitive element that occurs in both crystalline and amorphous forms, is an essential trace element found especially in grains and meat, and is used chiefly in glass, semiconductor devices, and alloys
—symbol Se
see Chemical Elements Table, selenosis
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