The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

ductile

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ductile

Capable of being stretched, drawn, or molded without breaking or losing its integrity.
"Gold is a ductile metal that can be hammered into thin sheets."

Detailed meaning of ductile

Ductility is a property often associated with metals, particularly those that can be hammered or stretched into thin wires, sheets, or other shapes without fracturing. Materials like gold, silver, and copper are known for their ductility. This property is essential in various industrial processes, including metalworking, where materials need to be shaped or manipulated without becoming brittle. "Ductile" conveys a sense of flexibility, pliability, and adaptability, emphasizing the ability of a material to withstand deformation while maintaining its structural integrity.

Example sentences containing ductile

1. Gold is a ductile metal, easily crafted into intricate jewelry.
2. The ductile wire could be stretched without snapping.
3. The artist molded the ductile clay into a stunning sculpture.
4. Steel is ductile, making it a versatile building material.
5. The ductile plastic allowed for flexible packaging design.
6. Copper's ductile nature makes it ideal for electrical wiring.

History and etymology of ductile

The adjective 'ductile' derives from the Latin word 'ductilis,' which is a form of 'ducere,' meaning 'to lead' or 'to draw.' In Latin, 'ductilis' was used to describe something that could be easily led or drawn out into a new form or shape. This concept evolved into the modern meaning of 'ductile,' which signifies the capacity of a material or substance to be stretched, drawn, or molded without breaking or losing its structural integrity. The etymology of 'ductile' underscores the idea of flexibility and adaptability, as it suggests the ability of a material to be led or directed into different forms or shapes without undergoing structural failure.

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Further usage examples of ductile

1. His ductile personality allowed him to adapt to any situation.
2. The engineer marveled at the ductile properties of the alloy.
3. Ductile materials are essential in the aerospace industry.
4. The chef used a ductile dough for the delicate pastries.
5. The ductile iron pipes were resistant to cracking.
6. The ductile wood was ideal for crafting fine furniture.
7. His ductile mind was open to new ideas and perspectives.
8. The scientist studied the ductile behavior of metals.
9. Ductile polymers are commonly used in medical devices.
10. The architect appreciated the ductile qualities of concrete.
11. The ductile plasticity of clay allowed for intricate pottery.
12. Her ductile willpower enabled her to overcome challenges.
13. The musician's ductile talent spanned various musical genres.
14. Ductile materials are crucial in earthquake-resistant construction.
15. The ductile metal wire can be easily bent without breaking.
16. This is a very ductile material, which can be molded into any shape.
17. The plastic is ductile and can be easily shaped into any form.
18. Copper is a ductile metal and can be drawn into thin wires.
19. The steel is ductile, which allows it to be shaped into different forms.
20. The ductile polymer can be stretched to many times its original length.
21. The malleable and ductile nature of aluminum makes it an ideal material for airplane parts.
22. The ductile property of rubber makes it suitable for use in tires.
23. The metal's ductility allows it to be easily stretched into various shapes.
24. The ductile plastic can be easily molded into various forms and shapes.
25. The ductile behavior of the material made it easy to weld the two pieces together.