Search Dictionary
Definition of helium

helium

/ˈhiːliəm/
he · li · um
JUMP TO:

helium Lexical Profile

helium Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A colorless, odorless, tasteless, and non-toxic inert gas that is the lightest of the noble gases and the second most abundant element in the observable universe (atomic number 2).

Example

"The balloons for the birthday party were filled with helium so they would float to the ceiling."

• Rhymes for helium

• Nearby Words

heliotropium
helipad
heliport
helium
helix
hell
hella

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1868 by Norman Lockyer and Edward Frankland from the Greek 'hēlios' (sun), because the element was first discovered as an unknown yellow spectral line signature in sunlight during a solar eclipse.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Helium. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/helium
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.