bismuth

noun

bis·​muth ˈbiz-məth 

: a metallic element that is used in alloys, pharmaceuticals (especially bismuth subsalicylate), and in pigments for cosmetics see Chemical Elements Table

bismuthic

biz-ˈmə-thik 

-ˈmyü-

adjective

Examples of bismuth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The raw materials required, like bismuth and tellurium, are rare, expensive, and trapped in chaotic global supply chains. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 23 June 2026

China controls roughly 90% of the global bismuth supply. —Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026

As the world's largest energy consumer, the country is exploring technologies ranging from the use of materials such as thorium and bismuth to the accelerated expansion of renewable energies and nuclear generation. —Fernanda González, Wired News, 10 June 2026

Some alternatives include bullets made from copper, as well as tungsten, bismuth and steel shot or anglers. —Drew Pittock, USA Today, 5 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin bismuthum, modification of German Wismut

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing bismuth

• bismuth subsalicylate

Kids Definition

bismuth

noun

bis·​muth ˈbiz-məth 

: a heavy brittle grayish white metallic element that is chemically like arsenic and antimony and is used in alloys and drugs see element

Medical Definition

bismuth

noun

bis·​muth ˈbiz-məth 

: a heavy brittle grayish white chiefly trivalent metallic element that is chemically like arsenic and antimony and that is used in alloys and pharmaceuticals

—symbol Bi see Chemical Elements Table

bismuthic

biz-ˈməth-ik  -ˈmyü-thik 

adjective