Tin

Definition

Tin is a chemical element with the symbol Sn and atomic number 50, known for its silvery-white appearance and malleability. It is also used as a noun to describe a container made of tinplate or tin-coated steel.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (rare, to coat with tin)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɪn/
• Respelling: TIN

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tɪn/
• Respelling: TIN

Etymology

The word "tin" originates from Old English "tin," derived from Proto-Germanic "*tinom," which is related to similar terms in Old High German "zin" and Old Norse "tin." Its ultimate origin is traced to Proto-Indo-European roots.

Derivatives

• Tinplate (noun)
• Tinning (noun/verb)
• Tinny (adjective)
• Tinware (noun)
• Untinned (adjective)

Synonyms

• Can
• Container
• Metal

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "tin" is commonly used to refer to the chemical element, as in "Tin is used to coat other metals to prevent corrosion." It also refers to a container, as in "The cookies are stored in a tin." As a verb, it describes the process of coating something with tin, as in "The steel was tinned for protection."

Related Terms

• Lead: A related metal often found with tin in ores.
• Alloy: A mixture of metals, such as bronze (tin and copper).
• Plating: The process of coating one material with another.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A chemical element (Sn): Refers to the metallic element used in alloys and coatings.
  • Example: "Tin is a key component in soldering materials."
• A container made of tinplate: Refers to a small box or can, often used for storage or packaging.
  • Example: "He kept the biscuits in a decorative tin."

Verb

• To coat with tin: Refers to the process of applying a layer of tin to a surface.
  • Example: "The copper wire was tinned to prevent oxidation."