Malleability Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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malleability
[หmรฆliษหbษชlษti ]
Definitions
physical properties
The quality of something that can be shaped into different forms without breaking.
Synonyms
ductility, flexibility, pliability.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| malleability |
Used when talking about materials that can be beaten or pressed into shapes without breaking. Often used in metallurgy or materials science.
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| flexibility |
Describes something that can bend or flex without breaking. This term is often used in both literal and figurative senses.
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| pliability |
This term is used when talking about something that can be easily bent or shaped, often implying softness. It's less technical than 'malleability' and 'ductility'.
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| ductility |
Refers to materials that can be stretched into a wire without breaking. Commonly used in engineering and materials science.
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Examples of usage
- The malleability of gold allows it to be hammered into thin sheets.
- The malleability of clay makes it a popular material for sculptors.
- The malleability of metals is an important characteristic in manufacturing processes.
mental attributes
The ability to be easily influenced or changed.
Synonyms
adaptability, openness, susceptibility.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| malleability |
Used to describe the ability of a material or a person to easily change shape or be influenced. Often related to physical properties (e.g., metals) or a person's flexibility in the face of change.
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| adaptability |
Commonly used to describe the capacity of a person, animal, or system to adjust to new conditions or environments. Often highlights resilience and flexibility.
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| openness |
Refers to a person's willingness to consider new ideas or try new experiences. Often relates to mental and emotional flexibility.
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| susceptibility |
Indicates a vulnerability or likelihood of being affected by something negative, such as illness, criticism, or influence. This word often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The malleability of young minds makes education crucial in shaping future generations.
- Political propaganda aims to exploit the malleability of public opinion.
- The malleability of memory can lead to false recollections.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Materials Science
- Gold is one of the most malleable metals; a single gram can be hammered into a sheet that's over a square meter in size.
- Certain alloys, like brass, combine metals to enhance malleability for various applications, from musical instruments to plumbing fixtures.
- Malleability often correlates with ductility, which is the ability to be drawn into wires. Metals like copper exhibit both traits.
Cultural Significance
- In ancient cultures, the malleability of metals like gold and silver made them symbols of wealth and power, used in jewelry and adornments.
- Artisans throughout history have celebrated malleability, crafting intricate designs that showcase the versatility of various metals.
Physics
- Malleability is a critical property in understanding how materials deform under stress, fundamental in engineering and construction.
- Changing temperature can affect a material's malleability; for example, metals often become more malleable when heated.
Applications
- Malleability is important in manufacturing, influencing methods like forging and rolling metals during production.
- Artists and craftspeople use malleability in metalworking to create sculptures, jewelry, and functional items.
Origin of 'malleability'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin term 'malleabilis,' which means 'able to be hammered.'
- It has been used in English since the early 19th century, primarily in a scientific context related to materials.
The word 'malleability' originates from the Latin word 'malleabilis', meaning 'capable of being hammered or shaped with a hammer'. The concept of malleability has been important throughout history in fields such as metallurgy and psychology, highlighting the significance of flexibility and adaptability in various contexts.