Pronunciation: [mˈɛtə͡lˌɔ͡ɪd] (IPA) 
Metalloid is a chemical element that has properties of both metals and non-metals. It is spelled [mɛtəlɔɪd] in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced as "met" with a short "e" sound, followed by "əl" with a neutral vowel, and "ɔɪd" with a diphthong of "ɔ" and "ɪ". The letter "y" in "metalloid" represents the sound "ɔɪ", which is a combination of two vowel sounds.
Metalloid is a term used in chemistry to describe an element that possesses properties of both metals and nonmetals. It refers to any chemical element that exhibits characteristics of both metallic and non-metallic elements in its physical and chemical behavior.
Metalloids are typically found in the periodic table along the staircase dividing metals from nonmetals. Examples of commonly recognized metalloids include boron (B), silicon (Si), germanium (Ge), arsenic (As), antimony (Sb), and tellurium (Te). These elements exhibit intermediate properties between metals and nonmetals, making them distinct from either side.
Metalloids often demonstrate traits such as having electrical conductivity between that of metals and nonmetals, varying degrees of luster, brittleness, and semiconductive behavior. They can also possess properties like a combination of metallic and non-metallic bonding characteristics. The metalloid behavior can arise due to the unique electronic structure of their atoms or the presence of covalent chemical bonding in their compounds.
Due to their dual nature, metalloids find applications in various industries. For instance, silicon (Si) is used extensively in the electronics industry to produce semiconductors, while boron (B) finds applications in industries such as glass manufacturing and as a dopant in semiconductors. Arsenic (As) has applications in pharmaceuticals and pesticides.
In summary, metalloids are a class of elements that exhibit intermediate properties between metals and non-metals. They possess a combination of metallic and non-metallic characteristics, making them vital in several industrial applications.
• A term applied to the metallic bases of the alkalies and earths, as calcium, potassium, sodium, &c.; the non-metallic inflammable bodies, as sulphur, phosphorus, &c.
• Having the form or appearance of a metal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "metalloid" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "metallo" meaning "metal" and "eidos" meaning "resemblance" or "form". This term was coined in the 19th century to describe elements that exhibited properties of both metals and nonmetals.
