English

Noun

noble metal ‎(plural noble metals) From the ME noble metall

1. (inorganic chemistry, alchemy) A metal resistant to corrosion, oxidizing and tarnishing, such as gold, platinum, copper and mercury.

Usage notes

So termed because they resist being made base. Chemists recognize them as the platinum group of elements.

Translations

See also

• base metal
• noble gas
• precious metal