HealthAugust 18, 2026

geochemical

JEE-oh-KEM-i-kul

Definition

Relating to the chemical composition of and chemical changes in the earth's crust, rocks, and minerals.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'geo' (earth) and the word 'chemical', reflecting the study of the chemical properties and interactions of elements within the earth.

In the news

In the article, researchers analyze 'geochemical signatures' in baby teeth to track levels of heavy metals like lead and arsenic that may have entered the bodies of children from the environment.

Aboriginal children helping tooth fairy on a mission

Read the full article ↗

UWA

Related words

arsenic

A poisonous chemical element found naturally in the earth's crust that can contaminate…

Health

coenzyme

A non-protein compound, such as a vitamin, that is necessary for the biological function…

Health

deciduous

Referring to the primary or 'baby' teeth that are naturally shed and replaced by…

Health

leach

To dissolve and be washed away from soil, rock, or other materials by the action of…

Health

myalgia

Pain in the muscles, specifically mentioned here in the context of side effects…

Health

prophylaxis

The action of taking preventative measures to maintain health or guard against a disease,…

Health

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.