white met·al | ˈ(h)wīt me-tᵊl
noun
Any combination of alloys of non-precious metals such as lead and tin
White metal is a blanket term used to refer to any combination of alloys that consist of non-precious metals. They are also sometimes known as pot metal. Made from elements such as lead, zinc, cadmium, bismuth and tin, white metal is commonly used for coatings of everyday objects like flatware, ornaments, bearings, medals, and household objects. The resulting shiny, metallic surface is still highly sought after, but using white metal is more affordable and accessible than precious metals. In the UK, silver is sometimes also referred to as white metal depending on its origin.
