quicksilver

English

/ˈkwɪkˌsɪlvɚ/

noun
Definitions
  • The metal mercury.
  • (colloquial) An amalgam of mercury and tin applied to the backs of mirrors, quicksilvering.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English quyk silver inherited from Old English cwicseolfor (living silver, quicksilver) compound from English quick (living) + English silver.

Origin

English

silver

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

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