metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈta-lik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or being a metal

b

: made of or containing a metal

c

: having properties of a metal

2

: yielding metal

3

: resembling metal: such as

a

: having iridescent and reflective properties

metallic paint

b

: having an acrid quality like that of metal

the tea has a metallic taste

4

a

: having a harsh resonance : grating

a metallic voice

b

: having an impersonal or mechanical quality

a metallic smile

metallically

mə-ˈta-li-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of metallic in a Sentence

We chose a paint with a metallic luster.

The medicine has a metallic taste.

Silver is a metallic element.

the metallic screech of the car's brakes

Recent Examples on the Web

Small fragments can cause laceration and punctures to digestive organs, such as the esophagus, stomach or intestines while metallic particles can become lodged in a person's throat and airways. —Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 19 Dec. 2024

Throughout her tenure on the show White has worn everything from metallic jumpsuits to sequin gowns. —Kristopher Fraser, WWD, 18 Dec. 2024

The actress completed the look with a sleek updo and red lipstick. 13 of 22 Katy Perry Katy Perry shined in a metallic silver dress at the 2024 iHeartRadio Jingle Ball in N.Y.C. —Catherine Santino, People.com, 17 Dec. 2024

Noritake: Metallic Collection A metallic glaze gives these Noritake porcelain dishes an iridescent effect that became popular in Europe in the late 19th century. —Sandra S. Soria, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, borrowed from Latin metallicus "of or relating to metal or mines," borrowed from Greek metallikós, from métallon "mine, metal entry 1" + -ikos -ic entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈtal-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or being a metal

2

: containing or made of metal

3

: having a harsh or rasping sound

a metallic voice

Medical Definition

metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈtal-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or being a metal

2

: made of or containing a metal

3

: having properties of a metal