mercury1

noun

• the chemical element of atomic number 80, a heavy silvery-white metal that is liquid at ordinary temperatures. (Symbol: Hg)Also called quicksilver.
• the column of mercury in a thermometer or barometer, or its height as indicating atmospheric temperature or pressure:the mercury rises, the skies steam, and the nights swelter
• historical mercury or one of its compounds used medicinally, especially to treat syphilis.