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Definition of silica

silica

/ˈsɪl.ɪ.kə/
sil · i · ca
Plural:silicas
•
Adjective:siliceous
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silica Lexical Profile

silica Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A hard, unreactive, colorless chemical compound consisting of silicon dioxide, occurring naturally in abundant mineral forms such as quartz, sand, flint, and opal, and used extensively in the manufacture of glass, ceramics, and concrete.

Example

"Small packets of silica gel are frequently placed inside shoeboxes and electronics packaging to absorb excess moisture."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for silica

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'silica' (a naturally occurring mineral compound, silicon dioxide, found in sand and quartz), 'silicon' (the pure chemical element used in computer microchips), and 'silicone' (a synthetic rubber-like polymer used in sealants, cookware, and medical implants).

• Nearby Words

silently
silesia
silhouette
silica
silicon
silicone
silk

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in Modern Latin around 1800 from the Latin word 'silex' (genitive 'silicis'), meaning flint or hard pebble.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Silica. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/silica
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