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Glite Dictionary
metalloid

metalloid

7.9
An element with some properties of metals and some of nonmetals
  • adjective
  • /ˈmɛtəlˌlɔɪd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : metaloide
  • Arsenic is considered a metalloid because it shows characteristics of both metals and nonmetals.

Examples

  • Boron is classified as a metalloid due to its unique properties.

  • Certain metalloid elements can conduct electricity, but not as well as true metals.

  • Pure silicon is a classic example of a metalloid used in the electronics industry.

  • Silicon is a metalloid that is widely used in electronics.

  • Arsenic is considered a metalloid because it exhibits properties of both metals and nonmetals.

  • Boron is classified as a metalloid due to its electrical conductivity that is intermediate between metals and nonmetals.

  • Pure silicon is a well-known metalloid that plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of semiconductors.

Synonyms

semimetallic
vsmetalloid
  • Specialized
7.0

Having qualities partly like metals and partly like nonmetals

means the same but is an alternative technical term

How Metallic

metallic
85 4.3
metalloid
  • Specialized
7.9
nonmetallic
1 5.2

Surface Forms

metalloid positive

Morphology

metalloid = metal (transparent) = metal + oid

Formed from 'metal' + the suffix '-oid' meaning 'resembling' so the term denotes 'metal-like', matching the stated sense.

Etymology

Metalloid comes from metal and the ending -oid, which means 'like', as in humanoid 'like a human'. So, a metalloid is 'like a metal' in some ways but not a true metal, which is why it shows both metal and nonmetal properties.