leaded bronze
- noun
- /ˈlɛdɪd brɒnz/
- Specialized
- Engine bearings are often made from leaded bronze because of its lubricating properties.
Examples
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The engineer recommended using leaded bronze for the new machine parts.
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Archaeologists discovered ancient tools composed of leaded bronze at the site.
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The addition of lead to leaded bronze makes it easier to machine than pure bronze.
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Many manufacturers prefer leaded bronzes for their durability.
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Engine bearings are often made from leaded bronze because of its lubricating properties.
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The addition of lead to leaded bronze makes it easier to machine than pure bronze.
-
The engineer recommended using leaded bronze for the new machine parts.
How Leaded
- Specialized
Surface Forms
Morphology
The adjective 'leaded' ('containing lead') directly modifies the noun 'bronze', so a learner who knows both words will understand this as bronze that contains lead; the specific technical details (percentages, machinability) are specialized but do not affect the basic compositional meaning. This straightforward adjective+noun composition follows normal English patterns and is cross-linguistically transparent, making it accessible to a B1 learner.
Etymology
Leaded bronze comes from the simple workshop practice of adding a little lead into bronze so the metal flowed better into molds and was easier to cut and shape. That's why 'leaded bronze' means bronze with a small amount of lead to make it easier to work.