Definition

1. Noun:

   • A fusible metal alloy: A soft metal alloy, typically composed of lead and tin, that is melted to create a permanent bond between metal surfaces or components.
   • The material used in joining: The substance applied in the process of soldering to form an electrical or mechanical joint.

2. Verb:

   • To join with solder: To unite or repair metal pieces by applying a melted alloy that cools to form a bond.
   • To fuse together: To create a connection, often for electrical circuits or plumbing, using this method.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The electrician used a lead-free solder for the circuit board.
  • A good solder must have a lower melting point than the metals being joined.

• Verb:

  • You need to solder the wires to the connector pins carefully.
  • The plumber will solder the copper joints to prevent leaks.

Advanced Usage

• "To solder on": To attach something by soldering.

  • The jeweler soldered on a new clasp to the broken necklace.

• "Soldered connection": A joint made by soldering.

  • The device failed due to a weak soldered connection.

Variants and Related Words

• Soldering (n/gerund): The process or action of joining with solder.

  • Soldering requires a steady hand and a clean surface.

• Soldering iron (n): A tool used to melt and apply solder.

  • He heated the soldering iron before starting the repair.

• Desolder (v): To remove solder from a joint.

  • You must desolder the old component before installing the new one.

Synonyms

• Fuse: To join or blend by melting together.
• Braze: To join metals using a filler metal with a higher melting point than solder.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Solder up: To complete a joint by soldering it.
  • Just solder up that last connection, and the radio should work.

Related Idioms

• To solder a relationship: (Figurative) To mend or strengthen a bond between people.
  • Their shared experience helped to solder their friendship.

Noun

1. an alloy (usually of lead and tin) used when melted to join two metal surfaces

Verb

1. join or fuse with solder
   • solder these two pipes together