base metal

noun

1. any metal other than a precious or noble metal, as copper, lead, zinc, or tin. Compare noble metal, precious metal.
2. the principal metal of an alloy.
3. the principal metal of a piece underlying a coating of another metal; core.

base metal

noun

1. any of certain common metals such as copper, lead, zinc, and tin, as distinct from the precious metals, gold, silver, and platinum

Example Sentences

The copper mining company’s stock gained ground along with prices for the base metal.

From Seattle Times

The copper producer rose along with prices for the base metal.

From Seattle Times

The copper mining company fell as prices for the base metal slipped.

From Seattle Times

The copper miner rose along with prices for the base metal.

From Seattle Times

China accounts for more than half of the global consumption of most base metals, which are widely used in the manufacturing sector.

From Reuters