electroplating
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪˈlɛk.trəˌpleɪ.tɪŋ/
KK: /ɪˈlɛk.trəˌpleɪ.tɪŋ/
noun
Definition
A method used to cover the surface of a metal item with a thin layer of another metal using electricity, often to improve its appearance or protect it from corrosion.
Example
The jewelry was made more attractive through electroplating with gold.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of electroplating?
Yeah, I think it's used to coat metals, right?
Exactly! It helps improve the properties of the surface.
That sounds really interesting; I’d love to learn more about it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
coating
plating
finishing
Antonyms
stripping
removal
dismantling
verb
Definition
To coat a surface with a layer of metal using an electric current.
Example
The factory uses electroplating to give the metal parts a shiny finish.
Tense Forms
Past: electroplated
Past Participle: electroplated
Conversation
Have you ever seen how they electroplating works on jewelry?
No, I haven't! How does it actually work?
They use electricity to coat the metal with a thin layer of another metal.
Root Explanation
Electroplating is formed from "electro-" (from Greek "ēlektron", meaning amber or electricity) and "plating" (from the verb "plate", meaning to cover or coat). The term describes the process of covering a surface with a layer of metal using electrical current.
Memory Tip
Think of 'electricity' ('electro-') being used to 'coat' ('plating') an object with metal.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.