tin

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B1 — Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun a silvery malleable metallic element that resists corrosion; used in many alloys and to coat other metals to prevent corrosion; obtained chiefly from cassiterite where it occurs as tin oxide
noun a vessel (box, can, pan, etc.) made of tinplate and used mainly in baking
noun metal container for storing dry foods such as tea or flour

From Middle English tin, from Old English tin, from Proto-West Germanic *tin, from Proto-Germanic *tiną.

It cranked against the tin trumpet. — Fairy Prince and Other Stories, Eleanor Hallowell Abbott
The indictment slept in O'Brien's tin file. — By Advice of Counsel, Arthur Cheney Train
Mr. Stubbs is still in the tin business. — Paul Prescott's Charge, Horatio, Jr. Alger

Sn, atomic number 50

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