nonmetal

[ non-met-l ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. an element not having the character of a metal, as carbon or nitrogen.
2. an element incapable of forming simple positive ions in solution.

nonmetal

/ nɒnˈmɛtəl /

noun

1. any of a number of chemical elements that form negative ions, have acidic oxides, and are generally poor conductors of heat and electricity

Word History and Origins

Origin of nonmetal¹

First recorded in 1865–70; non- + metal

Example Sentences

An undetectable firearm is defined as one constructed entirely of nonmetal substances, or with major components removed, so it is invisible to walk-through metal detectors.

From Washington Times

It also criminalizes “covert firearms” designed to not resemble a firearm, as well as “undetectable” firearms made of nonmetal substances so as not to set off metal detectors.

From Washington Times

The grants cover training and retraining of miners working at surface and underground coal and metal and nonmetal mines, including miners engaged in shell dredging or employed at surface stone, sand, and gravel mining operations.

From Washington Times

It covers miners working at surface and underground coal and metal and nonmetal mines, including those in shell dredging or employed at surface stone, sand and gravel mining operations.

From Washington Times

The department also has purchased so-called deep tissue scanners that can detect any foreign device inside a body, metal or nonmetal.

From Washington Times