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

Included among the new list are mines for lithium, copper, molybdenum and other critical and rare earth minerals. —David Blackmon, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025

These minerals include graphite, molybdenum and titanium, all of which are expected to play a key role in the pivot to more sustainable energy sources. —Sam Meredith, CNBC, 20 June 2025

Mg), vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni) and molybdenum (Mo). —New Atlas, 23 June 2025

This alloy consists of iron with a chromium content of 17.0-19.0%, 13.0-15.0% of nickel, and 2.5-3.2% molybdenum for the main alloying elements. —Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 1 July 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