ENGLISH
REFERENCE

metallic

adj. · n.
US //məˈtæɫɪk// UK //mətˈælɪk// metal·lic
  1. 1 made of metal (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    made of or containing metal.

    composed of or containing metal in its physical structure.

    Example

    The robot had a shiny metallic body that reflected the light.

    Example

    The geologist identified several metallic minerals within the rock sample, suggesting the presence of iron or copper deposits nearby.

    • non metallic
  2. 2 shiny appearance (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    having a shiny or polished look like metal.

    possessing a lustrous or reflective finish characteristic of polished metal.

    Example

    She chose a metallic blue paint for her new car.

    Example

    The fashion designer used metallic fabrics to create a futuristic aesthetic for the winter collection.

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  1. 3 harsh sound (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    sounding sharp or cold, like two pieces of metal hitting each other.

    describing a sound that is harsh, resonant, or thin, resembling the clanging of metal objects.

    Example

    The old radio made a strange metallic noise whenever the volume was high.

    Example

    His voice had a cold, metallic edge that made the listeners feel uneasy during the announcement.

  2. 4 a type of paint or color (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical

    a paint or color that has a shiny, metal-like finish.

    a pigment or finish, often used in automotive or decorative contexts, that incorporates small particles to create a reflective effect.

    Example

    The car is available in three different metallics, including silver and bronze.

    Example

    The manufacturer noted that applying metallics requires a specific spraying technique to ensure the flakes are distributed evenly across the surface.

    • metallic paint
Origin

From Latin metallicus, from metallum (“metal”), from Ancient Greek μέταλλον (métallon). Equivalent to metal + -ic.

Word family
  • Nounmetal
  • Adjectivemetallic

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