nonferrous
Meaning
(of a metal) not containing iron or not consisting mainly of iron.
Structure
Usage
Copper and aluminum are important nonferrous metals used in electrical wiring.
The recycling plant has a separate section for processing nonferrous scrap.
Nonferrous alloys are often chosen for their corrosion resistance and lighter weight.
Etymology
The word 'nonferrous' is a modern scientific compound formed within English. Its first element is the Latin-derived negative prefix 'non-,' meaning "not." The second element, 'ferrous,' originates from the Latin noun 'ferrum,' meaning "iron," combined with the English adjectival suffix '-ous,' which denotes possession or relation. Thus, the term's literal construction is "not iron-containing," a logical and precise descriptor used primarily in metallurgy and industry to categorize metals and alloys, such as copper, aluminum, or gold, based on the absence of iron.
Analysis
- non: A prefix of Latin origin, meaning "not." It functions as a negative or privative prefix. - ferrous: An adjective of Latin origin, from 'ferrum' (iron) + the adjectival suffix '-ous.' It functions as the base word meaning "containing or relating to iron."