fluorine

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a nonmetallic univalent element belonging to the halogens; usually a yellow irritating toxic flammable gas; a powerful oxidizing agent; recovered from fluorite or cryolite or fluorapatite

Etymology

From Latin fluor (“flow”) + -ine. Coined by British chemist Humphry Davy in 1813.

In classic literature

Synonyms

F, atomic number 9

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