the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English
n. A rare element of the vanadium group, first found in a variety of the mineral columbite occurring in Connecticut, probably at Haddam. Atomic weight 94.2. Symbol Cb or Nb. Now more commonly called niobium.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. Same as niobium.
n. In chem., a supposed new element announced in 1879 by J. L. Smith as present in the mineral samarskite: its existence has not been confirmed. Distinct from the previously known element columbium or niobium.
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
n. a former name for niobium
Word Usage
"These minerals are the principal sources of columbium (commonly called niobium), tantalum and molybdenum metals."