type metal

American  

noun

1. an alloy for making printing types, consisting chiefly of lead and antimony, and sometimes small quantities of tin, copper, etc.

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type metal British  

noun

1. printing an alloy of tin, lead, and antimony, from which type is cast

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Etymology

Origin of type metal

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

type metal

As editor of a crusading weekly back in the 1930s, New Mexico Newsman Will Harrison made so many enemies that he took to carrying a hunk of type metal for self-defense.

From Time Magazine Archive

But all of them, good & bad, what with loss of manpower, type metal rationing, impending reduced newsprint and drastic losses in advertising revenue, have found themselves pinched tight.

From Time Magazine Archive

Orphaned at 14, he worked during his high-school years first as a houseboy, then as a "pig boy," moving type metal in the composing rooms of the Los Angeles Times.

From Time Magazine Archive

Small cases, with their lesser weight of contents in type metal, often give distinct advantage in the ease with which they may be handled.

From Type Cases and Composing-room furniture by Stewart, A. A.

The thread on the spindle should be rather coarse, so that wooden or type metal face plates and chucks may be used.

From Scientific American, Vol. XXXIX.?No. 24. [New Series.], December 14, 1878 A Weekly Journal Of Practical Information, Art, Science, Mechanics, Chemistry, And Manufactures by Various