How Do You Spell QUICKLIME?

Pronunciation: [kwˈɪkla͡ɪm] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "quicklime" is often a point of confusion for many people. "Quicklime" refers to a chemical compound that is commonly used in the production of cement and other construction materials. The word is spelled with a "qu" at the beginning, which is pronounced as /kw/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This unique spelling is due to the word's origins in the Middle English language, where it was spelled as "quyklym." Despite its unusual spelling, "quicklime" remains an important and widely used substance in many industries.

QUICKLIME Meaning and Definition

1. Quicklime, also known as calcium oxide, is a white, alkaline, crystalline solid compound commonly used in various industrial applications. It is derived by heating limestone or seashells at high temperatures, resulting in the decomposition of calcium carbonate and the release of carbon dioxide. The chemical formula of quicklime is CaO.

   Quicklime possesses several distinctive properties that make it useful across different fields. It is highly reactive and, when exposed to moisture, can generate large amounts of heat through the process of hydration. Its temperature-increasing ability, referred to as "slaking," allows quicklime to act as a key ingredient in the production of cement, mortar, and other building materials. Additionally, quicklime plays an essential role in water treatment processes, as its strong basicity neutralizes acidity and aids in the removal of impurities.

   When handled or exposed to moisture, quicklime can pose risks due to its corrosive and caustic nature, warranting proper safety precautions during storage and usage. Furthermore, direct skin contact with quicklime can cause severe burns.

   In summary, quicklime is a calcium oxide compound, obtained by heating limestone or seashells to high temperatures. It is extensively used in construction, cement-making, and water treatment industries due to its heat-generating properties and strong alkalinity. Although it presents potential hazards, quicklime remains a crucial component in numerous industrial applications.

2. Recently-burnt lime, or lime yet unslaked-so called from its caustic and corrosive qualities.

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

Top Common Misspellings for QUICKLIME *

• quicktime 85.7142857%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for QUICKLIME

• quickle
• quickliy
• quicklie
• quickli
• quicklimes
• quicklyme
• Quickbeem
• Quickelime
• Quiclelime
• Kwiklime
• quickleme
• Quickbeame
• Quickclame

Etymology of QUICKLIME

The word "quicklime" is derived from Old English "cwic", which means "alive" or "living", and "lim", an Old English word for "lime". It is believed that "cwic" referred to the caustic nature of the substance, implying a sense of liveliness or vibrant reaction when combined with water. Over time, "cwiclim" gradually transformed into "quykke lyne" and then to "quicklime", which became the commonly used term to describe calcium oxide.

Plural form of QUICKLIME is QUICKLIMES