stainless-steel

UK: ˈsteɪnləs stiːl | US: ˈsteɪnləs stil

Definition
  1. n. a type of steel alloy resistant to rust and corrosion, containing chromium and other elements

Structure
stain <discoloration>less <without>steel <metal alloy>
Etymology

The word combines "stain" (from Old Norse steinn, meaning "discoloration") + "-less" (Old English -lēas, meaning "without") + "steel" (Old English stȳle, from Proto-Germanic stahliją). The term emerged in the early 20th century to describe chromium-alloyed steel that resists staining (rust). The logic is straightforward: "steel that lacks staining."

Examples
  1. The kitchen appliances are made of durable stainless-steel.

  2. Stainless-steel is widely used in medical instruments due to its hygiene.

  3. The bridge’s framework relies on stainless-steel for longevity.

  4. Her stainless-steel watch remained shiny for years.

  5. Engineers prefer stainless-steel for corrosive environments.