mercury

A silvery-white poisonous metallic element, liquid at room temperature and used in thermometers, barometers, vapor lamps, and batteries and in the preparation of chemical pesticides. Atomic number 80; atomic weight 200.59; melting point −38.83°C; boiling point 356.62°C; specific gravity 13.546 (at 20°C); valence 1, 2. cross-reference: Periodic Table.

Temperature.

Any of several weedy plants of the genera Mercurialis and Acalypha.

To wash with a preparation of mercury.

In Roman mythology, the name of a Roman divinity, who became identified with the Greek Hermes.

[lowercase or cap.] Pl. mercuries (-riz). One who acts like the god Mercury in his capacity of a messenger; a conveyor of news or information; an intelligencer.

Hence [lowercase or cap.] A common name for a newspaper or periodical publication; formerly, also, a newspaper-carrier or a seller of newspapers.

[lowercase] Warmth or liveliness of temperament; spirit; sprightly qualities; hence, liability to change; fickleness.

The innermost planet of the solar system.

[lowercase] Chemical symbol, Hg; atomic weight, 200.1. A metal of a silver-white color and brilliant metallic luster, unique in that it is fluid at ordinary temperatures.