heavy metal

noun

1. any metal with a specific gravity of 5.0 or greater, especially one that is toxic to organisms, as lead, mercury, copper, and cadmium.
2. aggressive and heavily amplified rock music, commonly performed by groups that wear spectacular or bizarre costumes.

heavy metal

noun

1. 1. a type of rock music characterized by a strong beat and amplified instrumental effects, sometimes with violent, or nihilistic lyrics
   2. ( as modifier )

      a heavy-metal band

2. a metal with a high specific gravity
3. military large guns or shot

Other Words From

• heavy-metal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of heavy metal¹

1860–65, for literal sense

Example Sentences

If the force of Wise’s version was constrained by the technology, it provided the blueprint for a plethora of face-melting heavy metal covers.

From New York Times

Andy Stahl, executive director of environmental group Forest Service Employees for Environmental Ethics, said the study bolsters fears of heavy metal concentrations in Phos-Chek that had until recently been supported by circumstantial evidence.

From Los Angeles Times

The downside is that their limited lifespan results in vast numbers of spent LIBs that contain dangerous heavy metals and other hazardous materials.

From Science Daily

In 2011, the Fukushima nuclear plant disaster in Japan badly damaged the world's view of nuclear power, and the price for the heavy metal - a critical component for nuclear fuel - cratered.

From BBC

He feels the group "have moments of real sombreness" mixed with the heavy metal.

From BBC

Related Words

• melody
• opera
• piece
• rap
• rock
• singing
• soul
• tune