red lead

noun

: an orange-red to brick-red lead oxide Pb3O4 used in storage-battery plates, in glass and ceramics, and as a paint pigment

Examples of red lead 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.
The Democratic Party hopes voters are fired up enough to get to the polls and take away that red lead. Alexandria Sands, Axios, 25 Oct. 2024 The authors note that since the Middle Ages, red lead in oil has been used to preserve stone, wood, and metal against humidity, and one contemporary source mentions using lead-rich oil instead of the typical glue to keep the canvas from separating after years of exposure in humid environments. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 15 Dec. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of red lead was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Red lead.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/red%20lead. Accessed 27 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

red lead

noun
: an orange-red to brick-red oxide of lead used in storage-battery plates, in glass, and in paint
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