What does metallize mean?
Metallize means to cover an object or surface with metal, to deposit a thin metallic layer on it, or to give it a metallic-looking finish. The verb is especially common in manufacturing, metalworking, electronics, and the decorative treatment of materials. For example, a fabric may be metallized with a thin coating of metal, while a manufacturer may metallize a component to improve its appearance, conductivity, or resistance to wear. In technical contexts, the word may refer to depositing metal onto another substance, as in semiconductor production. It is more precise than simply saying to coat because it identifies the coating material as metal. Although everyday speakers will usually understand it, metallize generally sounds formal or specialized rather than conversational. The spelling metallize is standard in American English, while British usage commonly favors metallise. Related forms include metallized, metallizing, and metallization.
verbTo coat a surface or object with a layer of metal, or to give it a metallic appearance or finish.
- To coat an object or surface with metal.
- To give an object a metallic appearance or finish.
- To deposit a metal layer on another material, especially in manufacturing and electronics.
"The manufacturer metallized the steel bracket with a thin protective coating."
"The workshop will metallize the copper plates before assembly."
"A thin gold layer can metallize the surface of the decorative glass."
The name hides a Greek word for metal and a verb-making suffix: together they mean “to give something a metallic surface.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metallize come from?
Metallize was formed in English from metal and the productive suffix -ize. The word metal comes through Latin metallum from Greek metallon, both associated with metal and mining. English subsequently extended the same root into related forms such as metallic and metallurgy.
Related word forms
How metallize is actually used
Metallize is primarily a formal or technical verb and is normally transitive. It is especially common in manufacturing, metalworking, electronics, and surface finishing. British English commonly uses the spelling metallise.
Easily confused with metallize
Metalize is an accepted variant spelling of metallize; both forms have the same meaning, with metallize being standard in US usage.