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barium

Pronunciation: /ˈbɛːrɪəm/

Definition of barium

noun

[mass noun]

the chemical element of atomic number 56, a soft white reactive metal of the alkaline earth group. (Symbol: Ba)
a mixture of barium sulphate and water, opaque to X-rays, which is swallowed to permit radiological examination of the stomach or intestines: [as modifier]:a barium meal

Barium compounds are used in water purification, the glass industry, and pigments, and as an ingredient of signal flares and fireworks, to which they give a bright yellowish-green colour. Barium oxide is a component of high-temperature superconductors