[ 'fɒsf(ə)rəs ]
■ noun the chemical element of atomic number 15, a poisonous, combustible non-metal which exists as a yellowish waxy solid which ignites spontaneously in air and glows in the dark ( white ~ ), and as a less reactive form used in making matches ( red ~ ). (Symbol: P )
Origin
C17: from L., from Gk phōsphoros , from phōs 'light' + -phoros '-bringing'.