iridium Definition
a dense, silvery-white, extremely hard, brittle, and corrosion-resistant metallic element of the platinum family, used especially for electrical contacts, as a catalyst, and in alloys.
Using iridium: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "iridium" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Iridium is used in spark plugs for aircraft engines.
Example
The metal's high melting point makes it useful in high-temperature applications.
Example
Iridium is also used in some jewelry pieces due to its rarity and durability.
iridium Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with iridium
a phenomenon caused by the reflective surfaces on Iridium communication satellites, which can cause brief but bright reflections of sunlight visible from the Earth's surface
Example
We were lucky enough to catch an iridium flare during our stargazing trip.
Example
Iridium oxide is a promising material for use in fuel cells.
a form of iridium that has been treated with a special process to create a black coating, used in jewelry making
Example
The iridium black ring was a unique and striking piece of jewelry.
Origins of iridium
from Greek 'iris', meaning 'rainbow'
Summary: iridium in Brief
Iridium [ɪˈrɪdiəm] is a hard, dense, and corrosion-resistant metallic element of the platinum family. It is used in electrical contacts, as a catalyst, and in alloys. The metal's high melting point makes it useful in high-temperature applications. Iridium is also used in some jewelry pieces due to its rarity and durability.
