noun
- Plural of mercury; the liquid metallic element (Hg) used in thermometers, barometers, and other instruments.
- Plural of Mercury; the Roman god of commerce, eloquence, and theft, typically depicted with winged sandals and a caduceus.
- Plural of Mercury; the smallest planet in the solar system and the one closest to the Sun.
Usage: scientific/technical
Usage: mythology; capitalized in singular form
Usage: astronomy; capitalized in singular form
Examples
- Old thermometers contained mercuries that could be dangerous if the glass broke.
- The ancient Romans worshipped mercuries and other deities in their temples.
- Astronomers study the surfaces of mercuries and other inner planets.
- Mercury is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature; mercuries in scientific equipment must be handled carefully.
- In classical art, mercuries are often shown carrying a staff called a caduceus.