silver

UK: ˈsɪlvə | US: ˈsɪlvər

Definition
  1. n. a precious shiny grayish-white metal, used in jewelry and tableware

  2. adj. having the color or luster of silver

  3. vt. to coat or plate with silver

Structure
silv <bright, shining>er <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "silver" traces back to Old English seolfor, derived from Proto-Germanic silubrą, which likely originated from a pre-Germanic substrate language. The root silv- reflects the metal’s characteristic brightness, while -er is a common noun-forming suffix in Germanic languages. Over time, the word retained its core association with the metal’s lustrous quality, evolving into its modern spelling and usage.

Examples
  1. She wore a necklace made of pure silver.

  2. The moonlight cast a silver glow on the lake.

  3. The artisan silvered the mirror with a thin metal layer.

  4. His hair had turned silver with age.

  5. Silver is often alloyed with copper for durability.