metallisch

Metallisch is an adjective in the German language describing something that relates to or resembles metal. It is used to characterize appearance, such as metallic luster or color, as well as properties typical of metals or metal-containing materials. The term derives from Metall, the German word for metal, with the adjectival suffix -isch.

In science, metallisch refers to properties arising from metallic bonding, including high electrical and thermal conductivity, malleability and ductility, and a high reflectivity or metallic luster. A substance described as metallisch is usually composed of atoms arranged in a crystal lattice with a “sea of electrons” that facilitates conduction of electricity and heat.

In geology and mineralogy, metallisch describes minerals with metallic luster, such as pyrite or galena, which appear opaque and highly reflective, unlike minerals with non-metallic luster (for example adamantine or vitreous types). The term helps distinguish surface appearances that resemble polished metal from other optical classes.

In everyday language, metallisch can describe surfaces that look or feel metal-like, such as a metallisch glänzender finish on devices, or metaphorically describe a metallic taste, for example a metallic taste caused by certain medications, metal ions, or spoiled foods. It can also be used to describe colors with a metal-like sheen, such as metallisch silbern or metallisch grau.

Overall, metallisch functions as a general descriptor for metal-related properties or appearances, spanning scientific usage, mineralogy, and common descriptive language.