Meaning & Definition of word "Tin"

Tin

/tɪn/

noun:

  • 1. A silvery-white metal, resistant to corrosion, often used to coat other metals to prevent rusting.
    • Example: The tools were made of tin, ensuring they would not rust easily.
  • 2. A container, typically made of metal or tin, used for storing food or other items.
    • Example: She opened a tin of cookies to share with her guests.
  • 3. The chemical element with the symbol Sn and atomic number 50.
    • Example: Tin is commonly used in soldering electronic components.

verb:

  • 1. To cover something with a layer of tin.
    • Example: The workers will tin the rooftops to protect them from rain.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English 'tin'; akin to Old High German 'zin', Latin 'stannum'

Common Phrases and Expressions

tin can:

A metal container, typically used for food storage.

tin foil:

A thin sheet of aluminum used for wrapping food.

tin ear:

An inability to perceive musical pitch accurately.

Related Words

tinplate:

A thin steel sheet coated with tin, used for making cans.

tinker:

A person who repairs metal utensils, often with tin.

Slang Meanings of tin

Meaning: A derogatory term for something of low quality or worth.

Example Sentence: That movie was pure tin.

Meaning: Referring to a cheap, low-class vehicle.

Example Sentence: He's driving that old tin can down the street.