tantalum Definition
tantalumnoun 1. chem.(symbol Ta, atomic number 73) a hard bluish-grey metallic element with a high melting point, that is resistant to corrosion and is used to make certain alloys, especially for nuclear reactors, as well as electronic components, chemical equipment, and dental and surgical instruments.
Etymology: 19c: named after Tantalus, due to the metal's inability to absorb acids; see
tantalize.