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barium

Syllabification: (bar·i·um)

Definition of barium

noun

the chemical element of atomic number 56, a soft white reactive metal of the alkaline earth group. (Symbol: Ba)
a mixture of barium sulfate and water, opaque to X-rays, that 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, giving a bright yellowish-green color. Barium oxide is a component of high-temperature superconductors

Origin:

early 19th century: from baryta + -ium

barium in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of barium in the British & World English dictionary

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