phosphorus

n. nonmetallic chemical element

Phosphorus, (, meaning "light", and phoros meaning "bearer"), is the chemical element that has the symbol P and atomic number 15. A multivalent nonmetal of the nitrogen group, phosphorus is commonly found in inorganic phosphate rocks.Due to its high reactivity, phosphorus is never found as a free element in nature. One form of phosphorus (white phosphorus) emits a faint glow upon exposure to oxygen (hence its Greek derivation and the Latin 'light-bearer', meaning the planet Venus as Hesperus or "Morning Star").Phosphorus is a component of DNA and RNA and an essential element for all living cells. The most important commercial use of phosphorus-based chemicals is the production of fertilisers.
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Noun
1. a planet (usually Venus) seen just before sunrise in the eastern sky
(synonym) morning star, daystar
(hypernym) planet

Noun
1. a multivalent nonmetallic element of the nitrogen family that occurs commonly in inorganic phosphate rocks and as organic phosphates in all living cells; is highly reactive and occurs in several allotropic forms
(synonym) P, atomic number 15
(hypernym) chemical element, element
(substance-holonym) apatite

(n.)
The morning star; Phosphor.
  

(n.)
Hence, any substance which shines in the dark like phosphorus, as certain phosphorescent bodies.
  

(n.)
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 under water, and unites with oxygen even at ordinary temperatures, giving a faint glow, -- whence its name. It always occurs compined, usually in phosphates, as in the mineral apatite, in bones, etc. It is used in the composition on the tips of friction matches, and for many other purposes. The molecule contains four atoms. Symbol P. Atomic weight 31.0.
  

An essential element in the diet and a major component of bone.