helium

noun

he·​li·​um ˈhē-lē-əm How to pronounce helium (audio)
ˈhēl-yəm
: a chemical element of the noble gas group with atomic number 2 that is found especially in natural gases and used chiefly for inflating airships and balloons, as a coolant for superconductors, and as a component of inert atmospheres (as in welding)
often used before another noun
helium balloons
helium gas
see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of helium in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web James Webb Telescope Finds 'Swirling Clouds' on Planet with 22-Hour Day and 1,500-Degree Temps It is hypothesized to be comprised mostly of hydrogen and helium, which scientists explain likely formed a hugely inflated atmosphere. Charna Flam, Peoplemag, 16 May 2024 It’s thought to consist mostly of hydrogen and helium, according to the study published in Nature Astronomy. Marcia Dunn, Twin Cities, 14 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for helium 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'helium.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Greek hēlios

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of helium was in 1871

Dictionary Entries Near helium

Cite this Entry

“Helium.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/helium. Accessed 19 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

helium

noun
he·​li·​um ˈhē-lē-əm How to pronounce helium (audio)
: a light colorless nonflammable element that is found in various natural gases and is used especially to blow up balloons see element

Medical Definition

helium

noun
he·​li·​um ˈhē-lē-əm How to pronounce helium (audio)
: a light colorless nonflammable gaseous element found especially in natural gases and used chiefly for inflating airships and balloons, for filling incandescent lamps, and for cryogenic research
symbol He
see Chemical Elements Table

More from Merriam-Webster on helium

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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