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al·loy

alloy

 
 
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb
features:
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part of speech: noun
pronunciation: ae loI
definition 1: a combined form of two or more metals, or of a metal with a nonmetal, sometimes using an inferior ingredient with a more costly one.
Brass is an alloy of zinc and copper.
synonyms:
amalgam, composite
similar words:
combination, composition, compound, hybrid, mix, mixture
definition 2: the relative degree of purity of a metal; fineness.
synonyms:
fineness
similar words:
grade, karat, quality, standard, temper
definition 3: something added that lowers quality or value.
synonyms:
adulterant, contaminant, impurity
similar words:
pollutant
 
part of speech: transitive verb
pronunciation: loI [or] ae loI
inflections: alloys, alloying, alloyed
definition 1: to mix (metals with other metals or with nonmetals) to form an alloy.
synonyms:
amalgamate, fuse, mix
similar words:
blend, combine, interfuse, synthesize
definition 2: to degrade the purity of by the addition of some element; adulterate.
A wave of sadness came over him, which alloyed his sense of triumph.
synonyms:
adulterate, degrade
similar words:
cheapen, debase, downgrade, impair, pollute, vitiate
derivation: alloyed (adj.)
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