nickel
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈnɪkəl/
KK: /ˈnɪkəl/
noun
Definition
A type of coin in the United States that is worth five cents, made from a mixture of nickel and copper.
Example
I found a nickel on the ground while walking to school.
Conversation
Do you have a nickel I can borrow for the vending machine?
Sure! Here you go, I always keep some change handy.
Thanks! I forgot how useful a nickel can be sometimes.
No problem! It's funny how those small coins really add up.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
coin
metal
alloy
Antonyms
dime
penny
quarter
transitive verb
Definition
To cover or coat something with a thin layer of nickel, a type of metal.
Example
The technician will nickel the surface of the metal to prevent rust.
Tense Forms
Past: nickeled
Past Participle: nickeled
Conversation
Did you know they can nickel the surface of that old lamp?
Really? I had no idea that was possible.
Yeah, it makes it look shiny and new again.
Root Explanation
Nickel originates from the German word 'Nickel' (meaning devil or goblin), which was a diminutive of 'Nikolaus' (Nicholas). The term was used by miners to refer to the metal because it was often found in ores that were difficult to extract, leading to frustration, hence the association with a mischievous spirit.
Memory Tip
Think of the German word 'Nickel' meaning a mischievous spirit, which helps you remember that nickel is a metal that can be tricky to extract from its ores.
Visually Confused Words
renickel
nicely
nice