heavy metal
noun
any metal with a specific gravity of 5.0 or greater, especially one that is toxic to organisms, as lead, mercury, copper, and cadmium.
heavy metals
-
pluralof heavy metal.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
They often look at various heavy metals and other contaminants that the organization thinks are too common in American food.
From Slate ● Sep. 14, 2026
In the Appalachian region stretching through the US state of West Virginia, the reddish water flowing out of retired coal mines is acidic, full of heavy metals and toxic for the environment.
From Barron's ● Aug. 22, 2026
Veterinarians will continue to monitor Jackie’s blood and white cell levels and are expected to test her for signs of contamination from less common heavy metals.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 2, 2026
Health authorities also found that the restaurant used ants that "contained up to 55 times more heavy metals than typical edible insects", according to a report on The Chosun Daily.
From BBC ● Jul. 22, 2026
Within an hour I know it contains an unknown parasite similar to cryptosporidium, but no heavy metals.
From "The Last Cuentista" by Donna Barba Higuera
