zinc

1 of 2

noun

ˈziŋk 

: a bluish-white metallic element with atomic number 30 that is ductile when pure but in the commercial form is brittle at ordinary temperatures and becomes ductile on slight heating, occurs abundantly in minerals, is an essential micronutrient for both plants and animals, and is used especially in alloys and as a protective coating in galvanizing iron and steel

—often used before another noun

a zinc coating

zinc additives

see Chemical Elements Table

zinc

2 of 2

verb

zinced or zincked ˈziŋ(k)t  ; zincing or zincking ˈziŋ-kiŋ 

transitive verb

: to treat or coat with zinc : galvanize

Examples of zinc in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Nuts and pumpkin seeds pack sleep-supporting compounds like melatonin, magnesium and zinc. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 23, Miami Herald, 23 July 2026

Friends of Big Bear Valley reported that the Ojai Raptor Center — where Jackie is receiving care — was unsure what was causing the symptoms as of Tuesday afternoon, and were waiting on test results for possible lead, zinc or rodenticide exposure. — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026

Pumpkin seeds offer 10 grams of protein per 1/4 cup and also contain magnesium, zinc, and fiber, which support heart health. — Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 22 July 2026

The Ojai Raptor Center said test results are still pending for possible exposure to lead, zinc and rodenticides, commonly known as rat poisons. — Rene Ray De La Cruz, USA Today, 22 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

German Zink

First Known Use

Noun

1651, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1841, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing zinc

• diethyl zinc
• mossy zinc
• zinc blende
• zinc chloride
• zinc oxide
• zinc sulfate
• zinc sulfide
• zinc white

Rhymes for zinc

• blink
• brink
• chink
• cinque
• clink
• dink
• drink
• fink
• hink
• ink
• kink
• klink

Kids Definition

zinc

noun

ˈziŋk

: a bluish white metallic element that is commonly found in minerals and is used especially in alloys and as a protective coating for iron and steel see element

Medical Definition

zinc

noun

ˈziŋk 

: a bluish-white metallic chemical element with atomic number 30 that is an essential micronutrient for both plants and animals

—symbol Zn see Chemical Elements Table