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rare-earth element

any of the series of metallic chemical elements, with consecutive atomic numbers of 57 (lanthanum) through 71 (lutetium) inclusive

often called rare-earth metal

See rare-earth element in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

Any of the abundant metallic elements of atomic number 57 through 71. Also called lanthanide.

Origin:

Origin: So called because they were originally thought to be rare

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