Britannia metal

American  

Or britannia metal

noun

1. a white alloy of tin, antimony, and copper in varying proportions, sometimes with small amounts of zinc, lead, and bismuth, used for tableware and as an antifriction material.

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Britannia metal British  

noun

1. an alloy of low melting point consisting of tin with 5–10 per cent antimony, 1–3 per cent copper, and sometimes small quantities of zinc, lead, or bismuth: used for decorative purposes and for bearings

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Etymology

Origin of Britannia metal

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

But when it’s just lounging in its pajamas — being the anti-French, pro-patriotic metal it is — its birth name, Britannia metal, works fine.

From The Verge

I've brought an enamelled mug, because it doesn't break like a teacup, and a little old Britannia metal teapot that I prigged from the attic.

From Project Gutenberg

Christopher missed 108 the big tea-tray and Britannia metal teapot, but the sofa with broken springs was still there, covered as it had ever been with the greater part of the family wardrobe.

From Project Gutenberg

Another one of true Britannia metal is being sent to our gallant ally.

From Project Gutenberg

Meantime, however, somebody as understood such things explained to young Drake that the stuff unearthed was not pewter, nor yet Britannia metal neither, but old Sheffield plate, and worth plenty of good money at that.

From Project Gutenberg