Skip to main content
platina

platina

9.9
An old rare word for the metal platinum
  • noun
  • /pləˈtiːnə/
  • Archaic
translation icon : platina
  • In the past, platina was often confused with silver due to its similar color.

Examples

  • Some of these objects are made of platina, with significant osmium content, but there are no refined metals.

    Fiction book (1999)
  • Couldn't they refine platina?

    Fiction book (1999)
  • The jewelry was crafted from platina, giving it a unique and elegant appearance.

  • Many antique items are made of platina, showcasing the craftsmanship of earlier times.

Synonyms

platinum
vsplatina
  • Specialized
96 4.2

A heavy valuable shiny white metal used in jewelry and science

is the older or rarer word for the same metal
Pt
vsplatina
  • Specialized
27 5.4

A symbol that shows something is made of the metal platinum

is the older word form rather than a written chemical symbol

Surface Forms

platina singular
platinas plural

Etymology

Platina comes from the Spanish word plata, which means 'silver', with a small ending so it meant 'little silver'; Spanish explorers in South America used this name for a new, rare metal that looked like silver. That's why English platinum and platina both refer to the same rare, silvery metal today.