sulfur Definition

sulphur
sulfur
noun

1. (symbol S, atomic number 16) a yellow solid non-metallic element that occurs naturally in volcanic regions, areas around hot springs, in deposits deep underground and as a constituent of the amino acids cysteine and methionine, which are found in most proteins. Its main uses are in the vulcanization of rubber and the manufacture of sulphuric acid, fungicides, insecticides, gunpowder, matches, fertilizers and sulphonamide drugs. Also (old use) called brimstone.

verb

sulphured, sulphuring
1. To treat or fumigate using sulphur.

Derivative: sulphuric
adj

Derivative: sulphury
adj

Etymology: 14c: from French soufre, from Latin sulfur.