Definition

The scientific term for a heavy metal that is soft and malleable, commonly used in batteries and radiation shielding.

Example

Plumbum is often used in the production of lead-acid batteries.

Conversation

Did you know that the chemical symbol for lead is plumbum?

Really? I had no idea it had such a unique name.

Yeah, it's derived from Latin, which is pretty interesting.

That's cool! I love learning about the origins of words.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Plumbum is a Latin word meaning lead, derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *plumb-, which also relates to the concept of weight or heaviness. The word is the source of the chemical symbol for lead, Pb, which comes from its Latin name.

Memory Tip

Think of 'plumbum' as the Latin word for lead, which is a heavy metal, helping you remember that it refers to lead.

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