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DictionarypewterTin-based alloy
noun / adjective

pewter

PYOO-ter/ˈpjuːtər/

A dull gray alloy consisting mainly of tin.

The pewter plate, cup, and vase share a dull gray surface.

A simple still life of a pewter plate, small handled cup, and rounded ornamental vase, showing their characteristic dull gray metal surfaces.
Etymology
pewterOld Frenchpewter

Old French peautre named the tin-based alloy. The material's use for plates, pots, and vessels also led to “pewter” meaning tableware made from it; its deeper origin is uncertain.

In context

Gentleman's Gazette3:29
Because of that pewter flasks were introduced which is a mix of tin, silver, lead, copper and other elements.
The Hip Flask Guide - Gentleman's Gazette

More examples

  • This pitcher is made of pewter rather than silver.
  • She polishes the pewter mugs with a soft cloth.
  • He chooses a metallic pewter gray for the walls.

Forms

pewter

Similar words

tin
Tin is the main element in pewter, not the alloy.
silver
Silver is a precious metal, not a tin-based alloy.