moly
n. uncountablen. a slang name for the metal molybdenum. It is often used in casual talk about heavy machinery or industrial tools.
n. a colloquial or slang term for molybdenum, a metallic element with high melting point and strength. Common in industrial and mechanical contexts.
The mechanic used a moly coating on the engine parts.
The factory workers referred to the high-strength alloy as moly because it was essential for the heavy-duty presses.
While the technical specifications listed the alloy as a molybdenum-steel composite, the crew simply called it moly, reflecting the informal jargon of the industrial floor.
From Latin mōly, from Ancient Greek μῶλυ (môlu) (probably a loanword).
Clipping of molybdenum.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Last updated May 25, 2026