How Do You Spell LITHARGE?

Pronunciation: [lˈɪθɑːd͡ʒ] (IPA)

Litharge (/ˈlɪθɑːrdʒ/) is a term used in the field of chemistry to refer to lead monoxide. The word comes from the Greek words lithos, meaning stone, and argyros, meaning silver. In terms of phonetics, the "th" sound in Litharge is pronounced with an aspirated "t" and a voiceless "th," as in the word "soothe." The "a" sound is pronounced with an open back unrounded vowel, while the "r" is pronounced with a tapped or trilled sound when spoken with certain accents.

LITHARGE Meaning and Definition

1. Litharge is a noun that refers to a yellow or reddish-yellow substance with a dull metallic appearance. It is a form of lead oxide, specifically lead monoxide (PbO), which is commonly used in various industrial and laboratory applications.

   Litharge has been utilized for centuries in different processes, such as the manufacturing of glass, ceramics, and pottery. It acts as a flux and plays a significant role in increasing the melting point and reducing the viscosity of the materials it is mixed with. This property allows for easier shaping and molding of these materials during their production. Additionally, litharge is known for its ability to produce vibrant colors when mixed with certain pigments or minerals.

   Another important application of litharge is in the production of lead-acid batteries. The substance is used as a component of the positive electrode (anode) in these batteries, as it promotes efficient conversion of electric energy. Litharge's electrical conductivity properties make it a suitable material for this purpose.

   However, it is worth noting that litharge is a toxic substance and must be handled with caution. Prolonged exposure to or ingestion of litharge can lead to lead poisoning, which can cause severe health issues, particularly affecting the nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive system. Therefore, it is crucial to handle, store, and dispose of litharge properly to avoid any potential harm to humans and the environment.

2. Lead oxide, a yellowish or reddish scaly powder or mass, plumbi oxidum.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

3. Partially fused or vitrified protoxide of lead, which enters largely into the composition of flint-glass, and which, if added to boiling linseed and other oils, imparts to them the property of drying.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for LITHARGE

• kitharge
• pitharge
• oitharge
• lutharge
• ljtharge
• lktharge
• lotharge
• l9tharge
• l8tharge
• lirharge
• lifharge
• ligharge
• liyharge
• li6harge
• li5harge
• litbarge
• litnarge
• litjarge
• lituarge

Etymology of LITHARGE

The word "litharge" has its roots in ancient Greek. It is derived from the Greek word "lithargyros", which combines "lithos" meaning "stone" and "argyros" meaning "silver".

Litharge refers to a bright yellow or reddish-yellow lead(II) oxide (PbO), which was historically known as a mineral pigment used by ancient civilizations for various purposes, including painting, cosmetics, and ceramic glazes. The ancient Greeks and Romans used litharge extensively, and the term was adopted from Greek into Latin as "lithargyrus".

Over time, the word lithargyrus evolved into "litharge" in the English language, maintaining its association with the yellow lead oxide. Litharge continues to be used in various industries, particularly in the manufacturing of ceramics, glass, and pigments.

Similar spelling words for LITHARGE

• larger,
• large.

Plural form of LITHARGE is LITHARGES