A2noun1K

Metal

UK /["/ˈmetl/"]/US /["/ˈmetl/"]/

Definition

a type of solid mineral substance that is usually hard and shiny and that heat and electricity can travel through, for example tin, iron and gold

In simple words: A hard, shiny material that can conduct heat and electricity.

Examples

  • The sculpture was made entirely of metal.
  • He used a metal detector to find hidden treasures on the beach.
  • Aluminum is a lightweight metal that is used in many products.
  • The metal bars were heavy and difficult to move.
  • Some types of metal can conduct electricity very well.
  • She wore a necklace that had a metal charm.
  • He loves listening to metal music, especially the bands from the 80s.
  • At the concert, metal fans showed extreme enthusiasm.

Usage notes

Used in both everyday and technical contexts. It's appropriate in discussions about materials, manufacturing, and music (like metal genre). Not commonly used in informal conversations about emotions or abstract concepts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'metal' as shiny like a medal, and both words start with 'met'.

Collocations

  • soft
  • pure
  • ferrous
  • chunk
  • hunk
  • lump
  • be cast in
  • be made from/​of/​out of
  • melt
  • contract
  • expand
  • rust
  • alloy
  • hydride
  • oxide
  • in metal
  • the clang of metal
  • the clash of metal

Synonyms

  • alloy
  • iron
  • steel
  • copper
  • brass

Antonyms

  • plastic
  • wood
  • fabric

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'mettle', which refers to someone’s spirit or courage.
  • Using 'metal' to describe something light or soft, when it's typically hard.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'metul' instead of 'met-l'.