base metal

noun

1

: a metal or alloy (such as zinc, lead, or brass) of comparatively low value and relatively inferior in certain properties (such as resistance to corrosion)

—opposed to noble metal

2

: the metal to which a coating or plating is applied : the metal existing underneath a coating or plating

3

: the chief constituent of any alloy

4

: the metal composing parts to be welded

Word History

Etymology

base entry 4

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