quicksilver

[kwik-sil-ver]

noun

1. the metallic element mercury.

verb (used with object)

1. to amalgamate (metal) with mercury.

quicksilver

/ ˈkwɪkˌsɪlvə /

noun

1. another name for mercury

adjective

1. rapid or unpredictable in movement or change

   a quicksilver temper

Other Word Forms

• quicksilvery adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of quicksilver¹

before 1000; Middle English qwyksilver, Old English cwicseolfor (translation Latin argentum vīvum ) literally, living silver

Word History and Origins

Origin of quicksilver¹

Old English, from cwicu alive (see _quick ) + seolfer silver

Example Sentences

That combination of hard-running forward and quicksilver backs, connecting with superb handling skills, was in evidence again and again.

From BBC

Expect a similarly powerful forward pack, with some quicksilver runners and astute playmakers in the backline.

From BBC

Music director and conductor Stephen Oremus maintained the production’s high musical standards, bringing out the extensive palette of a rock score with quicksilver moods.

From Los Angeles Times

Also known as quicksilver, mercury is a neurotoxin that can affect the nervous system and kidneys, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

From Los Angeles Times

Together, the combination of big target man Withe and quicksilver Shaw alongside him turned Villa first into league champions in May 1981, then European champions in 1982.

From BBC

Related Words

• capricious 
• changeable 
• flighty 
• temperamental 
• unpredictable 
• unstable 
• volatile