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

According to the International Trade Administration, Armenia contains metals such as iron, copper, gold, silver, and aluminum, as well as gold-polymetallic, copper-molybdenum, and copper pyrite deposits. —Mark Temnycky, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026

The chassis is now stiffer too, thanks to a chromium-molybdenum-steel trellis frame. —New Atlas, 18 Jan. 2026

The outer layer of the capsule is made from gelatin coated with a layer of cellulose and either molybdenum or tungsten, which blocks any RF signal from being emitted. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 9 Jan. 2026

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

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