: a white crystalline compound ZrO2 used especially in refractories, in thermal and electric insulation, in abrasives, and in enamels and glazes

called also zirconium oxide

Examples of zirconia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Both the Oura Ring 5 and the Oura Ring 4 are made of titanium, though the older model is also available with a zirconia ceramic exterior. Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 4 June 2026 To do the former, add some strappy sandals and consider diamond (or zirconia) accessories. Emily Kelleher, InStyle, 23 May 2026 Crown packages with zirconia or E-max materials begin at £1,030 and also last 4–5 days. K.h. Koehler, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026 After printing, crowns must undergo debinding, which removes the resin holding zirconia particles, and sintering, which fuses the particles into a solid structure. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for zirconia

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from International Scientific Vocabulary zircon

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zirconia was in 1794

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Cite this Entry

“Zirconia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zirconia. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

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