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 brightening and blurring properties come from bismuth oxychloride, a mineral that adds a light-reflecting luminous finish, and silicones that create the illusion of blurred skin. —Essence Wiley, InStyle, 25 Feb. 2026

Copper is particularly suitable for rifle hunting, while steel and bismuth are commonly used in shotguns. —Madeline Bartos, CBS News, 19 Feb. 2026

As a test case, the team examined an atomically thin sample of bismuth strontium calcium copper oxide, or BSCCO. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 4 Feb. 2026

The metal alloy is composed largely of tin with varying amounts of copper, antimony, bismuth, and previously, lead. —Sarah Wood González, Vogue, 28 Nov. 2025

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