fluorine

noun

fluo·​rine ˈflu̇r-ˌēn How to pronounce fluorine (audio)
ˈflȯr-
: a nonmetallic gaseous chemical element of the halogen group with atomic number 9 that readily forms compounds with almost all other elements including some noble gases see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of fluorine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 2025, French firm Veolia flexed its global leadership in PFAS treatment by opening a massive plant in Delaware that filters PFAS from water and incinerates it to break the bond between fluorine and carbon, one of the strongest in chemistry. Time Contributors, Time, 29 Apr. 2026 In the conversion process, the solid uranium oxide concentrate is reacted with fluorine to create the UF6 gas. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 27 Mar. 2026 The front glass also includes an anti-smudge coating, fluorine, a material that repels grease and moisture. Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 16 Mar. 2026 That's because tap water from municipal water supplies can contain small amounts of chemicals like chlorine and fluorine that are beneficial to water supplies, but more than some sensitive houseplants can handle. Alexandra Jones, The Spruce, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fluorine

Word History

Etymology

French, from New Latin fluor

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fluorine was in 1813

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fluorine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fluorine. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

fluorine

noun
flu·​o·​rine
ˈflu̇(-ə)r-ˌēn
-ən
: a nonmetallic element that is normally found alone as a pale yellowish flammable irritating poisonous gas having two atoms per molecule see element

Medical Definition

fluorine

noun
: a nonmetallic monovalent halogen element that is normally a pale yellowish flammable irritating toxic gas
symbol F
see Chemical Elements Table

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