Appears in: Lunar Baedeker
Frequency: 1
Definition:
(noun) 1) Of or pertaining to phosphorus; resembling or containing phosphorus; specifically, designating those compounds in which phosphorus has a lower valence as contrasted with the phosphoric compounds; 2.1) the morning star: Phosphor; 2.2) A poisonous nonmetallic element of the nitrogen group, obtained as a white, or yellowish, translucent waxy substance, having a characteristic disagreeable smell. It is very active chemically, must be preserved in water, and unites with oxygen even at ordinary temperatures, giving a faint glow—whence its name. (MW)