TechnologyAugust 16, 2026

intermetallic

in-ter-muh-TEL-ik

Definition

Relating to a solid-state compound consisting of two or more metallic elements that has a distinct, orderly crystal structure different from its individual components.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'inter-' (meaning 'between' or 'among') and 'metallic,' reflecting how the elements are combined within a single crystalline lattice structure.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe a highly ordered structure formed in a platinum-cobalt catalyst, which is crucial for maximizing the material's efficiency and durability in hydrogen fuel cells.

New Breakthrough in Hydrogen Fuel Cells Could Power Data Centers

Read the full article ↗

Intelligent Living

Related words

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.