Langimage
English

metal

|met-al|

B1

/ˈmɛtəl/

solid material

Etymology
Etymology Information

'metal' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'metallum,' where 'metallum' meant 'mine, quarry, metal.'

Historical Evolution

'metallum' transformed into the Old French word 'metal,' and eventually became the modern English word 'metal' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'mine or quarry,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a solid material.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a solid material that is typically hard, shiny, malleable, fusible, and ductile, with good electrical and thermal conductivity.

Gold is a precious metal.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

molten glass before it is blown or cast into a shape.

The artist shaped the metal into a beautiful vase.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35