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noun

hafnium

HAF-nee-um
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Hafnium (noun) means a chemical element with the symbol Hf and atomic number 72, a lustrous, silvery-grey transition metal. Example: “Hafnium has the symbol Hf.”

noun
1
technical A chemical element with the symbol Hf and atomic number 72, a lustrous, silvery-grey transition metal.
"Hafnium has the symbol Hf."
"Hafnium is a metal, not a gas."
"The table gives hafnium the atomic number 72."

How to use hafnium

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA silvery-grey metallic element, number 72 on the periodic table.

When to use it

It is a technical term used in chemistry.

Memory tip

Stress the first syllable: HAF-nee-um.

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Common pairings
the element hafnium hafnium atom symbol for hafnium
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Test yourself on “hafnium” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ has the symbol Hf.

Etymology

The name was formed from Hafnia, the Latin name for Copenhagen, plus the suffix -ium. It was chosen because the element was discovered in Copenhagen.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for hafnium

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Frequently asked questions

What is hafnium?
Hafnium is a chemical element with the symbol Hf and atomic number 72. It is a lustrous, silvery-grey transition metal.
Where does the name hafnium come from?
It comes from Hafnia, the Latin name for Copenhagen, where the element was discovered.
What is the symbol for hafnium?
The symbol is Hf.
What is the meaning of hafnium?
"hafnium" (noun) means a chemical element with the symbol Hf and atomic number 72, a lustrous, silvery-grey transition metal.
Definitions: FreeDict original editorial