krypton

noun

kryp·​ton ˈkrip-ˌtän How to pronounce krypton (audio)
: a colorless relatively inert gaseous element found in air in trace amounts and used especially in electric lamps see Chemical Elements Table

Examples of krypton in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In 1898, two British chemists by the names of Sir William Ramsay and Morris William Travers were credited for discovering the four gases that would eventually be used to create neon signs: neon, krypton, xenon and argon. — Jennifer Nalewicki, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Feb. 2020 In the moon's vacuum, atoms of noble gases such as argon and krypton will be captured in the aluminum. — James R. Berry, Popular Mechanics, 19 July 2019

Word History

Etymology

Greek, neuter of kryptos hidden — more at crypt

First Known Use

1898, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of krypton was in 1898

Browse Nearby Words

krypt-
krypton
kryptonite
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Cite this Entry

“Krypton.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/krypton. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

krypton

noun
kryp·​ton ˈkrip-ˌtän How to pronounce krypton (audio)
: a colorless gaseous element found in air and used especially in electric lamps see element

Medical Definition

krypton

noun
kryp·​ton ˈkrip-ˌtän How to pronounce krypton (audio)
: a colorless relatively inert gaseous element found in air at about one part per million
—symbol Kr see Chemical Elements Table

More from Merriam-Webster on krypton

Nglish: Translation of krypton for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about krypton

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