metallurgy

UK: mɪˈtælədʒi | US: ˈmɛtəlˌɜːrdʒi

Definition
  1. n. the science or technology of metals, including their extraction, purification, and use in manufacturing.

Structure
metal <hard, shiny material>urgy <work, process>
Etymology

The word "metallurgy" combines "metal," derived from Greek metallon (mine, quarry, metal), with the suffix "-urgy," from Greek -ourgia (work, process). The term reflects the ancient practice of extracting and working metals, evolving into a specialized scientific field. The morpheme "metal" retains its core meaning, while "-urgy" denotes a technical process, creating a logical compound for the study of metalworking.

Examples
  1. Modern metallurgy has revolutionized aerospace engineering.

  2. She pursued a degree in metallurgy to work in the steel industry.

  3. Ancient metallurgy techniques were surprisingly advanced.

  4. The book covers the history of metallurgy from the Bronze Age.

  5. His research focuses on sustainable metallurgy practices.