Boron

Boron might not be famous, but it is hiding in things you use every day. Discovered around 1808 by multiple chemists racing to isolate it, boron is a metalloid — meaning it has properties of both metals and nonmetals. You have probably encountered it as borax, a common laundry booster and cleaning product your parents might keep under the sink.

Boron is essential for plant life. Without it, plants cannot grow properly, so farmers add boron-containing fertilizers to soil. It is also incredibly hard — boron nitride is nearly as hard as diamond and is used in cutting tools. Borosilicate glass (like Pyrex) contains boron, which is why it can handle extreme temperature changes without shattering.

Boron's single-letter symbol 'B' is a spelling superstar. As one of only a few single-letter element symbols, it can kick off countless words in Spellement, from 'bat' to 'brain.' Its flexibility makes it a go-to element for creative spellers.