noun
- a metallic chemical element with the symbol Nb, also known as niobium
Usage: chemistry; dated
Examples
- Columbium was first discovered in 1801 by Charles Hatchett.
- The metal columbium is used in high-temperature alloys.
- Scientists now prefer the name niobium over columbium.
- Columbium has excellent corrosion resistance properties.
- The periodic table lists this element as niobium rather than columbium.