sulphur

noun

• 1 [mass noun] the chemical element of atomic number 16, a yellow combustible non-metal: we should use coal which contains less sulphur [as modifier]:the islands are also renowned for their thermal springs and sulphur baths (Symbol: S)
• the material of which hellfire and lightning were formerly believed to consist.
• a pale greenish-yellow colour: [as modifier]:the bird’s sulphur-yellow throat

Sulphur occurs in volcanic and sedimentary deposits, as well as being a constituent of many minerals and petroleum. It is normally a bright yellow crystalline solid, but several other allotropic forms can be made. Sulphur is an ingredient of gunpowder, and is used in making matches and as an antiseptic and fungicide

• 2an American butterfly with predominantly yellow wings that may bear darker patches.

  • Colias, Phoebis, and other genera, family Pieridae

verb

• disinfect or fumigate with sulphur.