Quicksilver Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quicksilver
[ˈkwɪkˌsɪlvər ]
Definitions
chemical element
Quicksilver is the common name for the chemical element mercury. It is an element with the symbol Hg and atomic number 80. Known for its liquid state at room temperature, mercury has been used historically in thermometers, barometers, and other scientific instruments. Due to its toxicity, however, its use has decreased in many applications. Quicksilver has a unique silvery appearance and is one of the few metals that is liquid at standard conditions for temperature and pressure.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Quicksilver can be used in thermometers.
- The toxicity of quicksilver poses significant health risks.
- Miners historically used quicksilver to extract gold.
mythological reference
In mythology, quicksilver is often associated with the Roman god Mercury, who was known for his speed and mobility. The term 'quicksilver' can symbolize something that is elusive or difficult to grasp. This association highlights the ephemeral and transformative qualities attributed to mercury in alchemical traditions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The swift movement of the quicksilver-like character amazed everyone.
- In literature, the quicksilver essence often represents change.
- The god Mercury is often depicted with quicksilver.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Quicksilver is known as mercury on the periodic table and has the chemical symbol 'Hg'.
- It's the only metal that is liquid at room temperature, causing it to behave uniquely in various physical conditions.
- Due to its toxicity, handling quicksilver requires caution, as it can be harmful to humans and the environment.
History
- Ancient Egyptians used quicksilver in embalming practices, believing it had preservative properties.
- Alchemists sought to turn base metals into gold using quicksilver, believing it held the secret to transmutation.
- In the 19th century, quicksilver was a key ingredient in the production of felt hats, leading to the term 'mad as a hatter' due to mercury poisoning.
Pop Culture
- Quicksilver appears as a character in Marvel Comics, known for his incredible speed and agility.
- In the film 'X-Men: Days of Future Past,' Quicksilver showcases his powers in a memorable scene set to music, demonstrating his quickness visually.
Environmental Impact
- Quicksilver contamination in water bodies poses significant risks to wildlife and human health due to bioaccumulation.
- Efforts in various countries focus on regulating and reducing the use of this metal to protect ecosystems and communities.
Origin of 'quicksilver'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'cwicseolfor', where 'cwic' means 'alive' and 'seolfor' means 'silver'.
- It was believed that this metal had magical properties because of its strange, flowing nature.
The term 'quicksilver' has its roots in the Old English word 'cwicseolfre,' which is a combination of 'cwic' meaning 'alive' or 'living,' and 'seolfor,' meaning 'silver.' This name reflects the element's unique properties, including its liquid form and shiny, silver-like appearance. The term has been used for centuries to describe mercury, as alchemists and early chemists found it valuable for various applications due to its distinct physical and chemical properties. The etymological development of the word also mirrors the historical perception of mercury, as it was regarded not just as a metal, but also as something mystical and transformative, associated with the god Mercury in Roman mythology. Throughout the ages, the understanding of quicksilver evolved, especially as awareness of its toxicity grew, leading to restrictions on its use in everyday applications.