silica

noun

sil·​i·​ca ˈsi-li-kə 

: the dioxide of silicon SiO₂ occurring in crystalline, amorphous, and impure forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand respectively)

Examples of silica in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Ford recommends using a nutrient-poor carnivorous plant compost, such as sphagnum peat mixed with perlite or silica sand. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 14 July 2026

Soda-lime glass is made from a mixture of soda, lime, and silica. — Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 9 July 2026

Fire shelters are made of multiple layers Crafted from aluminum foil, silica fabric and fiberglass, fire shelters are designed to protect users from the intense heat of flames and to trap breathable air inside as a fire passes. — Jack Dura, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026

Home Depot, Lowe’s and Costco are still selling crystalline silica products as of June 2026. — David Michaels, Fortune, 21 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Latin silic-, silex hard stone, flint

First Known Use

circa 1801, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing silica

• silica gel
• vitreous silica

Rhymes for silica

• basilica

Kids Definition

silica

noun

sil·​i·​ca ˈsil-i-kə 

: a compound that consists of the dioxide of silicon and occurs in various forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand)

Medical Definition

silica

noun

sil·​i·​ca ˈsil-i-kə 

: the dioxide of silicon SiO₂ that is used as an ingredient of simethicone and that occurs naturally in crystalline, amorphous, and impure forms (as in quartz, opal, and sand respectively)

called also silicon dioxide