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platinum

(plat′'n əm)

noun

a silver-colored, malleable, ductile, metallic chemical element that is highly resistant to corrosion and tarnish, used as a chemical catalyst, for acid-proof containers, ignition fuses, jewelry, dental alloys, etc.: symbol, Pt; at. no., 78

Origin: ModL < Sp platina, dim. of plata, silver < Prov, metal plate, silver bar, silver < VL *plattus, flat: see plate

adjective

☆ designating a record, tape, disc, video, etc. which has registered sales of a specified number, as two million, or value, as $1,000,000: platinum reflects a greater number or value than gold

Origin: by assoc. with the platinum-plated copy awarded to the performer(s)

See platinum in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

Symbol Pt A silver-white metallic element occurring worldwide, usually mixed with other metals such as iridium, osmium, or nickel. It is ductile and malleable, does not oxidize in air, and is used as a catalyst and in electrical components, jewelry, dentistry, and electroplating. Atomic number 78; atomic weight 195.08; melting point 1,772°C; boiling point 3,827°C; specific gravity 21.45; valence 2, 3, 4. See Table at element.
A medium to light gray.

Origin:

Origin: New Latin

Origin: , from Spanish platina, platinum; see platina

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