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Tin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tin

[tɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

metal

A soft, malleable, silvery-white metal that is often used as a protective coating for other metals to prevent corrosion.

Synonyms

coating, element, metal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tin

This appears to be repeated. Refer to the first entry 'tin' for its context and examples.
metal

Use 'metal' to talk about a class of materials that are typically hard, shiny, and good conductors of electricity and heat.

  • Gold is a precious metal.
  • The bridge was made of strong metal to withstand heavy traffic.
element

Use 'element' to refer to a basic substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means or in a more abstract sense to describe a fundamental part of something.

  • Tin is an element in the periodic table.
  • Trust is an important element of a strong relationship.
coating

Use 'coating' to describe a layer or covering of a certain substance applied on a surface for protection or decoration.

  • The chocolate coating on the candy was delicious.
  • The table had a protective coating to prevent scratches.

Examples of usage

  • Tin is commonly used to coat steel cans to prevent rusting.
  • Tin is also used in the production of solder for joining metals together.
Context #2 | Noun

container

A container made of tinplate, typically used for storing food or other goods.

Synonyms

can, container, tinplate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
tin

Used to refer to a small, metal container typically for food or other small items.

  • He opened a tin of beans for dinner.
  • She keeps her cookies in a tin.
can

Commonly used for metal containers that hold liquids or preserved foods.

  • I bought a can of soda.
  • She packed a can of soup for lunch.
container

A general term used for any type of container, not necessarily metal, that can hold items.

  • Please put the leftovers in a container.
  • She uses a container to organize her beads.
tinplate

Refers to thin steel or iron sheet coated with tin, used in manufacturing cans or other objects. It’s more technical and specific.

  • The factory produces tinplate for food cans.
  • He works in a workshop where they shape tinplate.

Examples of usage

  • She opened a tin of beans for dinner.
  • He carried a tin of cookies to the party.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • Tin has been used by humans for thousands of years, notably in bronze, an alloy made from tin and copper.
  • Ancient Egyptians used tin to create bronze tools and weapons, showcasing its importance in early civilizations.

Pop Culture

  • The character Tin Man from 'The Wizard of Oz' represents the idea of searching for a heart, which became a cultural icon.
  • Tin has inspired various works of art and music, symbolizing resilience, such as the song 'Tin Man' by America.

Science

  • Tin is a malleable metal, meaning it can be easily shaped or bent without breaking.
  • It’s often used in soldering due to its low melting point, allowing connections in electronics and plumbing.

Environmental Impact

  • Tin mining has environmental consequences, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, which raises sustainability concerns.
  • Recycling tin cans is important as it saves energy and reduces waste, reflecting a growing focus on eco-friendly practices.

Origin of 'tin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'tin' comes from the Latin 'stannum', which means the same thing and is also where the chemical symbol 'Sn' originates.
  • Old English called it 'tin' or 'tinne', reflecting its long history in human use.

The word 'tin' originated from the Old English word 'tin', which is derived from the Latin word 'stannum'. Tin has been used by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Babylonians. It has played a significant role in various industries, including metallurgy, food packaging, and electronics.

See also: tinning, tinplate, tiny.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,144, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.