Definition

A special metal made from nickel and titanium that can change shape when heated and return to its original form.

Example

The doctor used a nitinol stent to help keep the artery open after surgery.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of nitinol?

Yeah, it's that cool metal that changes shape when heated, right?

Exactly! I was amazed when I learned it can go back to its original form.

Me too! It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nitinol is a portmanteau formed from 'Nickel' (the chemical element symbolized as 'Ni') and 'Titanium' (symbolized as 'Ti'), combined with 'naval ordnance laboratory' where it was first developed. The word refers to a nickel-titanium alloy known for its shape memory and superelastic properties.

Memory Tip

Think of 'Nickel' and 'Titanium' coming together to create a special metal that can remember its shape, which is what nitinol is all about.

Visually Confused Words