mercury: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Mixed (technical-scientific for the element; formal for mythology/astronomy; informal for 'quicksilver' traits).
Quick answer
What does “mercury” mean?
A heavy, silvery metallic chemical element (symbol Hg) that is liquid at room temperature and used in thermometers, barometers, and electrical equipment.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A heavy, silvery metallic chemical element (symbol Hg) that is liquid at room temperature and used in thermometers, barometers, and electrical equipment.
In classical mythology, Mercury (Mercurius) was the Roman god of trade, eloquence, travel, and thievery, often depicted as a messenger with winged sandals and helmet; this extends to the use of 'mercury' as an informal term for something very fast or mobile. It also refers to the planet closest to the sun in our solar system.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or spelling. In informal use, 'quicksilver' is equally common in both varieties for describing speed or fluidity. References to the brand 'Mercury' (cars) are more common in American English.
Connotations
Identical core connotations: toxicity of the element (hazardous), elusiveness (like quicksilver), and speed (from the god/planet).
Frequency
The scientific term is equally frequent. The metaphorical use for speed is slightly more literary/idiomatic and equally distributed.
Grammar
How to Use “mercury” in a Sentence
Mercury + verb (e.g., mercury rises/falls/spills)Mercury + is + adjective (e.g., mercury is toxic/volatile)Preposition + mercury (e.g., contamination with mercury, thermometer containing mercury)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mercury” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His mercurial temper was evident.
American English
- She has a mercurial personality.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in regulatory contexts: 'compliance with mercury emissions standards.'
Academic
Frequent in chemistry, environmental science, and astronomy papers: 'mercury accumulation in aquatic ecosystems.'
Everyday
Primarily in weather reports: 'The mercury hit 30 today.' Also in health warnings about fish consumption.
Technical
Detailed specifications: 'a manometer filled with pure mercury.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mercury”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “mercury”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mercury”
- Using 'Mercury' (capitalized) for the element in formal scientific writing (should be 'mercury' or 'Hg').
- Confusing 'mercury' with 'mercurial' (adjective) in usage.
- Pronouncing it as /mərˈkjʊəri/ (incorrect stress).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'quicksilver' is an older, common name for the element mercury, referring to its liquid, shiny, and fast-moving appearance.
It is named after the Roman messenger god because it appears to move swiftly across the sky, completing its orbit around the Sun faster than any other planet.
Not directly. The adjective form is 'mercurial,' meaning quick-changing, volatile, or lively, deriving from the god's traits.
Mercury and its compounds are potent neurotoxins. Exposure can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and other organs, especially through inhalation of vapors or ingestion.
A heavy, silvery metallic chemical element (symbol Hg) that is liquid at room temperature and used in thermometers, barometers, and electrical equipment.
Mercury is usually mixed (technical-scientific for the element; formal for mythology/astronomy; informal for 'quicksilver' traits). in register.
Mercury: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɜːkjəri/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɜːrkjəri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The mercury is rising/falling (referring to temperature)”
- “Mad as a hatter (historically linked to mercury poisoning in hat-making)”
- “Have mercury in one's veins (to be very quick or restless; rare/idiomatic)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the Roman god MERCURY, the speedy messenger—just like the silvery liquid metal that rolls away quickly if spilled.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPEED/FLUIDITY IS MERCURY (e.g., 'His thoughts flowed like mercury').
Practice
Quiz
Which of these is NOT a common meaning or use of 'mercury'?