molybdenum

noun

mo·​lyb·​de·​num mə-ˈlib-də-nəm 

: a metallic element that resembles chromium and tungsten in many properties, is used especially in strengthening and hardening steel, and is a trace element in plant and animal metabolism see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of molybdenum in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Researchers ultimately selected monolithic uranium molybdenum as the most viable solution after years of testing. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 18 Dec. 2025

When a mining company wanted to build a molybdenum mine in the heart of the White Cloud Mountains, the Statesman opposed it. —Idaho Statesman, 16 Dec. 2025

Each steel contains different chemical elements, such as molybdenum and vanadium, which are mined only in a few countries. —Peter Müllner, The Conversation, 10 Dec. 2025

Right, so the battery uses gelatin as the electrolyte, and magnesium and molybdenum as electrodes – both of which are relatively benign elements and can safely degrade in soil. —Abhimanyu Ghoshal, New Atlas, 28 Nov. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from molybdena, a lead ore, molybdenite, molybdenum, from Latin molybdaena galena, from Greek molybdaina, from molybdos lead

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing molybdenum

• molybdenum disulfide

Kids Definition

molybdenum

noun

mo·​lyb·​de·​num mə-ˈlib-də-nəm 

: a metallic element used in steel alloys to give greater strength and hardness see element

Medical Definition

molybdenum

noun

mo·​lyb·​de·​num -də-nəm 

: a metallic element that resembles chromium and tungsten in many properties, is used especially in strengthening and hardening steel, and is a trace element in plant and animal metabolism

—symbol Mo see Chemical Elements Table