metalloid
nounUK /ˈmɛtəlɔɪd/
US /ˈmɛtəlɔɪd/
A metalloid is a material that is like both a metal and a non-metal.
Silicon is a metalloid used to make computer chips.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. An element that has some properties of metals and some of non-metals.
Boron and arsenic are metalloids on the periodic table.
3. Something that has a mix of metal and non-metal qualities.
The coating was a metalloid blend that resisted rust but did not conduct well.
4. In older chemistry, a non-metal that looks somewhat like a metal.
Early scientists called tellurium a metalloid because of its shiny look.