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

Related Articles Winfrey has recently opted for metallic attire when attending red carpet events. —Maggie Clancy, WWD, 11 Oct. 2024

Beauty moments at Balmain stood out for Diner—particularly with fragrance iconography doubling as runway accessories this season—as did the gold glitter crescent moons at Loewe and the metallic lashes at Bottega by Dame Pat McGrath. —Eoghan O'Donnell, Vogue, 10 Oct. 2024

The lightweight outerwear features a distressed hem, classic wash, and metallic buttons. —Shea Simmons, People.com, 10 Oct. 2024

Then, layer on a metallic or shimmering shade to add depth and dimension. —India Espy-Jones, Essence, 9 Oct. 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