Erbium
/ˈɜːrbiəm/
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Scientific Usage
Primarily used in scientific contexts, especially chemistry and physics, not in everyday language. 
In our research, we will measure erbium's optical properties.
Pro Tip 2/3Rare Earth Metal
Erbium is a rare earth metal, which can imply it's valuable or used in specialized applications. 
The company mines rare earth metals like erbium for high-tech manufacturing.
Pro Tip 3/3Technical Collocations
Erbium is often paired with words like 'doped,' 'fiber,' and 'laser,' showing its use in technologies. 
Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers are essential in long-distance fiber optic communications.