Definition of silica
: the dioxide of silicon SiO2 occurring in crystalline, amorphous, and impure forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand respectively)
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Recent Examples of silica from the Web
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This jar is made of silica glass, which can handle a 180 degree Fahrenheit temperature change. 9.
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The robot started with a layer of silica, the main component of sand, and used the ion beam to shape the walls and cut out the windows and door.
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For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, book an in-water treatment where you will be massaged while floating in the silica-rich waters of the lagoon itself.
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The water is comprised of silica, algae and minerals.
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At the beach, silica sand mixes with fragments of coral, shell and other material of biological origin.
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For example, silica, which makes up around 60 percent of windblown desert dust, is known to cause chronic lung inflammation, lung cancer and autoimmune diseases.
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As New Atlas explains, engineers used a focused ion beam to cut a flat sheet of the silica membrane.
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The rocks are obsidian, a silica-heavy glass that formed near the end of the eruption cycle of nearby Mount Konocti, last active about 11,000 years ago.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'silica.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of silica
New Latin, from Latin silic-, silex hard stone, flint
NEW! Time Traveler
First Known Use: circa 1801
in the meaning defined above
See Words from the same yearSILICA Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of silica for English Language Learners
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: a chemical that contains silicon, that is found in sand and quartz, and that is used to make glass
Medical Dictionary
Learn More about silica
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Spanish Central: Translation of silica Nglish: Translation of silica for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about silica
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