trace element
noun Biochemistry.
any element that is required in minute quantities for physiological functioning.
Also called
trace mineral.
Origin of trace element
First recorded in 1935–40
Words nearby trace element
trabeculotomy,
trabs,
trabzon,
tracasserie,
trace,
trace element,
trace fossil,
traceable,
traceless,
tracer,
tracer bullet
British Dictionary definitions for trace element
trace element
noun
any of various chemical elements, such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, and iodine, that occur in very small amounts in organisms and are essential for many physiological and biochemical processes
Medical definitions for trace element
trace element
[ trās ]
n.
A chemical element required in minute quantities by an organism to maintain proper physical functioning.
A minute quantity or amount, as of a chemical compound.
Scientific definitions for trace element
trace element
[ trās ]
An element present in an organism in only very small amounts but essential for normal metabolism. Iodine and cobalt are trace elements required by humans.