VocabDictionary

aluminum

/əˈluːmɪnəm/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A silvery-white, ductile metallic element that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and a good conductor of electricity and heat, most commonly used in packaging, construction, and transportation.

Example Sentences:
  • Most soda cans and foil wraps are made of lightweight aluminum.
  • The modern airplane frame is constructed primarily from aluminum alloys.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “aluminum”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Coinage from English chemist Sir Humphry Davy. In 1808, Davy proposed the name 'alumium' for the base metal derived from alum, later modifying it to 'aluminum' in 1812 to conform with the -ium suffix standard for metallic elements. The spelling 'aluminium' was later adopted in the UK and internationally to match the majority of other elements, while North America retained Davy's original 'aluminum'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'lumen' (light) shining off a lightweight, silvery soda can made of aluminum.

Frequently Asked Questions About “aluminum

1. What is the meaning of “aluminum” in English?

In English, aluminum (noun) is defined as: “A silvery-white, ductile metallic element that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and a good conductor of electricity and heat, most commonly used in packaging, construction, and transportation.”.

2. How do you use “aluminum” in a sentence?

Most soda cans and foil wraps are made of lightweight aluminum.

3. What are English synonyms of “aluminum”?

Common synonyms include:aluminium,metal,element

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “aluminum”?

Coinage from English chemist Sir Humphry Davy. In 1808, Davy proposed the name 'alumium' for the base metal derived from alum, later modifying it to 'aluminum' in 1812 to conform with the -ium suffix standard for metallic elements. The spelling 'aluminium' was later adopted in the UK and internationally to match the majority of other elements, while North America retained Davy's original 'aluminum'.