Meaning & use
re-plate
Last updated
Meanings
verbtransitivetechnical
To put a new layer of metal onto an object, usually by electroplating.
Grammar: Takes an object: re-plate the silver.
Patterns
- re-plate something
- re-plate something with something
The antique spoon was worn, so the jeweler offered to re-plate it.
They decided to re-plate the handles with gold to restore their shine.
verbtransitivetechnical
To cover a surface with a new layer of metal, especially for protection or decoration.
Grammar: Often used in passive: The car parts were re-plated.
Patterns
- re-plate something
- re-plate something in something
The old coins were re-plated to make them look new.
He re-plated the brass fittings in nickel to prevent rust.
Word forms
| third person singular | re-plates |
|---|---|
| past tense | re-plated |
| past participle | re-plated |
| -ing form | re-plating |
Common combinations
- re-plate with gold
- The jeweler re-plated the ring with gold.
- re-plate a surface
- They re-plated the surface to make it shiny.
- re-plate silver
- The silverware was re-plated to remove scratches.
- re-plate metal
- The workshop re-plates metal parts for cars.
Synonyms and how they differ
- electroplate
- A more specific term for plating using electricity; re-plate is broader and can include other methods.
- coat
- A general word for covering a surface; re-plate specifically means adding a metal layer.
Word family
- plating noun
- A thin layer of metal covering an object.
- plater noun
- A person who plates metal objects.
Commonly confused: re-plate or relate?
re-plate vs relate
Relate means to tell a story or show a connection. Re-plate means to put a new metal layer on something. They sound similar but have completely different meanings.
Practice
The old teapot looked dull, so they decided to _____ it with silver.
Choose one answer.
Re-plate means to put a new metal layer on an object. Relate means to tell or connect, replace means to put something new in place of something old, and replay means to play again. Only re-plate fits the context of restoring a metal surface.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “re-plate”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.