metalloid
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɛtəˌlɔɪd/
KK: /mɛˈtælɔɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a substance that has properties between those of metals and nonmetals, often appearing metallic in nature.
Example
Silicon is a metalloid that is widely used in electronics.
Conversation
Have you ever seen those rocks that look shiny but aren’t quite metal?
Yeah, they remind me of something metalloid!
Exactly! I always thought they were just fancy minerals.
They really are interesting; I love how they can look so metallic.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
metallic
shiny
lustrous
Antonyms
dull
nonmetallic
matte
noun
Definition
A type of element that has properties of both metals and nonmetals, often used in semiconductors and alloys.
Example
Silicon is a common metalloid used in electronics.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a metalloid?
Yeah, I learned about them in chemistry class; they're pretty interesting!
I think it's cool how they have properties of both metals and nonmetals.
Root Explanation
Metalloid is formed from "metal" (from Greek "metallon", meaning mine or metal) and "-oid" (from Greek "eidos", meaning form or shape). The word metalloid refers to a substance that has a form or characteristics similar to metal.
Memory Tip
Think of 'metal' as something that has a 'form' or 'shape' like metal — that's why metalloid describes something that resembles metal.
Visually Confused Words
thalloid
petaloid
meloid