nickel
UK: ˈnɪk(ə)l | US: ˈnɪk(ə)l
n. a silvery-white metallic chemical element (symbol Ni), used in alloys and plating
n. (informal) a five-cent coin in the US or Canada, originally made of nickel
No data yet.
The word "nickel" originates from the German "Kupfernickel," meaning "devil's copper" or "false copper." Miners in the 17th century initially mistook nickel ore for copper ore (Kupfer) but found it yielded no copper. They blamed a mischievous sprite ("Nickel," akin to "Old Nick" for the devil) for the deception. The term was later shortened to "nickel" when the element was isolated in 1751.
Nickel is resistant to corrosion, making it useful for plating.
The US five-cent coin is colloquially called a nickel.
Stainless steel often contains nickel for added durability.
She collected nickels in a jar for her savings.
Nickel mining is a major industry in some regions.