helium
An element that's lighter than air and often used for balloons.
Helium is commonly used for filling party balloons because it makes them float. People also use helium to cool superconducting materials, which are really good at conducting electricity with zero resistance. In addition, scientists study the properties of helium in space and on Earth to learn more about the universe.
How common is "helium"?
Word helium is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
Definitions
noun
(uncountable) The second-lightest chemical element (symbol He), with an atomic number of 2 and atomic weight of 4.002602, a colorless, odorless and inert noble gas.
E939 when used as a packaging gas
Real examples of "helium" in context
