platinum
UK[ˈplætɪnəm]US[ˈplæt̬ənəm]
n
A very valuable, silver-white metal that is one of the chemical elements. It does not tarnish and is used in jewelry, industry, and as a catalyst.
adj
Of a silvery-white color like that of platinum.
adj
Denoting a category of achievement, service, or quality that is of the highest level, especially in the music industry where it signifies sales above a specified high level.
Etymology
The word 'platinum' entered English in the early 19th century from Spanish 'platina', meaning "little silver." The Spanish term is a diminutive of 'plata' (silver), derived from the Vulgar Latin 'platta', meaning "metal plate," itself from Ancient Greek 'platus' (πλατύς), meaning "broad, flat." The metal was given this name by Spanish conquistadors in South America, who initially regarded it as an inferior, unworkable form of silver. The modern abstract meanings, such as the highest tier of certification, derive metaphorically from the metal's extreme rarity, value, and durability.
Analysis
The word is a simplex loanword from Spanish. It cannot be meaningfully segmented into productive English morphemes while preserving the original spelling.
Examples
Her wedding ring was made of platinum.
The album went platinum after selling over a million copies.
The catalyst in the converter is often platinum.