molybdenum
UK[məˈlɪbdənəm]US[məˈlɪbdənəm]
n
a hard, silver-white metallic element used especially in making steels stronger and more resistant to heat.
Etymology
the word 'molybdenum' entered english in the early 19th century from new latin, which adapted it from the earlier german term 'molybdän'. this, in turn, was derived from the ancient greek word 'molybdos', meaning 'lead'. the naming reflects a historical confusion in mineralogy; the soft, grey mineral molybdenite (molybdenum disulfide) was originally mistaken for a lead ore or graphite due to its similar appearance. thus, the modern element's name preserves the ancient greek term for lead, memorializing the initial misidentification before the distinct metallic element was isolated and recognized.
Analysis
this word is a simplex loanword from new latin. it is not productively formed from separable english morphemes and should not be segmented.
Examples
molybdenum is a key alloying agent in high-strength steels.
the filament supports in some light bulbs are made from molybdenum wire.
trace amounts of molybdenum are essential for many enzymes in plants and animals.