English · Word Candidate

alloy

/ˈæ.lɔɪ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: alloys · alloying · alloyed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A metal that is a combination of two or more elements, at least one of which is a metal, a base metal.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

An admixture; something added which stains, taints etc.

Noun

Metrodorus said that in sadnesse there is some aloy of pleasure.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To mix or combine; often used of metals.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To reduce the purity of by mixing with a less valuable substance.

Verb

to alloy gold with silver or copper, or silver with copper

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “alloy” mean?

A metal that is a combination of two or more elements, at least one of which is a metal, a base metal.

Is “alloy” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.