Ways to say it
| Latin | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| hydrargyrum | [hyˈdrar.ɡy.rũː] (Classical Latin, narrow) [iˈdrar.d͡ʒi.rum] (narrow) |
neuter |
| argentum vivum | neuter |
In Latin, there are different ways to refer to the chemical element depending on whether you are being technical or descriptive. hydrargyrum is the technical and etymological term for the element. You may also use the descriptive phrase argentum vivum to describe its properties. Note that if you are referring to the Roman god or the planet, you must use the name Mercurius instead.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase argentum vivum translates literally to 'living silver'.
Which one should you use?
hydrargyrum is the scientific/etymological term for the element, while argentum vivum is a descriptive phrase used to describe its properties. To avoid confusion, do not use these terms when referring to the Roman god or the planet, as those require the name Mercurius.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Both hydrargyrum and argentum vivum are neuter nouns.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Hydrargyrum etiam vivum argentum appellatur.Mercury is also known as quicksilver.This sentence is useful for learning how to identify that hydrargyrum is also called quicksilver.Tatoeba #12016341 by carlosalberto, translation #11576518 by shekitten
- Hydrargyrum in ampulla est.The mercury is in the vial.
Example conversation
Aurelia and Quintus are looking at a chemistry set.
- AureliaQuid est hoc liquidum?What is this liquid?
- QuintusHoc est hydrargyrum, Aurelia.This is mercury, Aurelia.
- AureliaCur sic lucet?Why does it shine so much?
- QuintusQuia hydrargyrum est metallum.Because mercury is a metal.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mercury” translations and entries hydrargyrum, argentum vivum, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries argentum, hydrargyrum, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
