A metal that is a combination of two or more elements, at least one of which is a metal.
"The strength of modern aircraft wings often relies on an alloy like aluminum-copper, which combines these metals to resist deformation under stress."
In plain English: An alloy is a mixture of metals that has been combined to make something stronger than pure metal on its own.
"The gold ring was made from an alloy that gave it extra strength without losing its shine."
Usage: Use the noun form to describe a mixture of metals created for specific properties like strength or durability. When referring to mixing substances in general contexts outside metallurgy, prefer "mix" instead of using the verb alloy unless discussing metal composition specifically.
make an alloy of
"The metallurgist decided to melt copper and zinc together to make an alloy of brass for the new gears."
To mix or combine; often used of metals.
"The blacksmith heated the iron and added copper to alloy it into a stronger material."
In plain English: To alloy something means to mix it with other metals so they become stronger together.
"The new engine was alloyed with old parts to save money, but it did not run smoothly."
The word alloy comes from the Middle French term alloy, which traces back to the Latin verb alligō. Originally, it meant "to bind together."