metallic
UK: mɪˈtælɪk | US: məˈtælɪk
adj. relating to or resembling metal
adj. having the physical properties of metal (e.g., luster, conductivity)
adj. (of sound) sharp, ringing, or harsh like metal
The word "metallic" derives from the Latin "metallicus," which itself comes from the Greek "metallikos," meaning "pertaining to metal." The root "metal" traces back to the Greek "metallon," originally referring to mines or excavated materials, later narrowing to denote mined substances like gold and iron. The suffix "-ic" (from Latin "-icus") transforms nouns into adjectives, indicating "of or relating to." Over time, "metallic" expanded beyond literal metal properties to describe qualities (e.g., sound, appearance) reminiscent of metal.
The sculpture had a cold, metallic sheen under the gallery lights.
Her voice took on a metallic tone when she raised it in anger.
The robot’s movements produced a series of metallic clicks.
Scientists developed a metallic coating to prevent corrosion.
The jar landed with a metallic clang on the concrete floor.