phosphorus 
a multivalent nonmetallic element of the nitrogen family that occurs commonly in inorganic phosphate rocks and as organic phosphates in all living cells; is highly reactive and occurs in several allotropic forms (Freq. 1) • Syn: P, atomic number 15 • Derivationally related forms: phosphoric, phosphorous • Hypernyms: chemical element, element • Substance Holonyms: apatite
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