lith·i·um  (l ĭth ē- əm)
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n. Symbol Li1. A soft, silvery, highly reactive element that is an alkali metal and is used as a heat transfer medium, in thermonuclear weapons, and in batteries, lubricants, various alloys, ceramics, and optical glass. Atomic number 3; atomic weight 6.941; melting point 180.5°C; boiling point 1,342°C; specific gravity 0.534; valence 1. See Periodic Table. 2. Any of several salts of lithium, especially lithium carbonate.
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