Tung"sten (?) n. [Sw. tungsten (cf. Dan. tungsteen, G. tungstein); tung heavy (akin to Dan. tung, Icel. þungr) + sten stone. See Stone.]
1. Chem.
A rare element of the chromium group found in certain minerals, as wolfram and scheelite, and isolated as a heavy steel-gray metal which is very hard and infusible. It has both acid and basic properties. When alloyed in small quantities with steel, it greatly increases its hardness. Symbol W (Wolframium). Atomic weight, 183.6. Specific gravity, 18.
2 Min.
Scheelite, or calcium tungstate.
[Obs.]
Tungsten ocher, ∨ Tungstic ocher Min., tungstate.
© Webster 1913.