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REFERENCE

stainless

adj. · n.
US //ˈsteɪnɫəs// UK //stˈeɪnləs// stain·less
  1. 1 metal that does not rust (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Science

    made of a special metal that does not rust or get stained easily.

    describing a steel alloy containing chromium that is resistant to rusting, corrosion, and staining.

    Example

    We bought a new stainless steel sink for the kitchen renovation.

    Example

    The architect specified stainless steel cladding for the exterior to ensure the building maintained its appearance despite the salty coastal air.
    • rust resistant
    • corrosion proof
    • corrodible
  2. 2 morally pure (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Literary Formal

    having a perfect reputation or being free from any moral mistakes.

    free from moral blemish or sin; possessing an unspotted reputation.

    Example

    After twenty years in politics, he still has a stainless reputation.

    Example

    The candidate presented himself as a man of stainless character, though his opponents worked tirelessly to find any past indiscretion.
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  1. 3 stainless steel items (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Cooking

    knives, forks, and spoons made from stainless steel.

    a collective term for cutlery or kitchenware manufactured from stainless steel alloys.

    Example

    She polished the stainless until it shone like a mirror.

    Example

    The restaurant invested in high-quality stainless for the dining room to reduce the long-term costs of replacing damaged silverware.
Origin

From stain + -less.

Word family
  • Nounstain
  • Adjectivestainless

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