The word "Quicksilvered" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˌkwɪkˈsɪlvəd/. The first syllable "kwik" is pronounced with a "kw" sound followed by the short "i" sound and a hard "k" sound. The second syllable "silv" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, a "l" sound and a "v" sound. The last syllable "ered" is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by a hard "r" sound and a soft "d" sound. This word refers to something that has been covered in or treated with mercury.
Quicksilvered is an adjective that refers to something or someone that has been transformed or affected by quicksilver, which is another term for mercury. Quicksilvered can describe the appearance, behavior, or characteristics of an object, substance, or person that has been coated, covered, or infused with quicksilver or its properties.
In its literal sense, quicksilvered emphasizes a remarkable and unique silvery or metallic-like appearance, as seen when quicksilver is applied to a surface. This term can be used to describe the reflective and shiny quality of a substance that resembles the appearance of mercury. In a metaphorical sense, quicksilvered can be used to portray the behavior or movement of someone or something as being swift, agile, or capricious, reminiscent of the unpredictable and fluid nature of quicksilver.
Additionally, quicksilvered can convey a sense of transformation or metamorphosis. It can denote a change undergone by an individual or an object, such as a character quicksilvered by an experience, circumstance, or influence. It suggests the alteration of one's nature or state, often resulting in a mesmerizing or striking quality.
Overall, quicksilvered is a term that connotes the qualities associated with quicksilver or mercury, including its visual appearance, behavior, and transformative nature.
Overlaid with quicksilver.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "quicksilvered" is derived from the combination of two words: "quicksilver" and "ed".
1. Quicksilver: The term "quicksilver" is an old English word that dates back to the 14th century. It is a compound word formed by the combination of "quick" and "silver". "Quick" in this context means "living" or "moving", and "silver" refers to the metal mercury. Quicksilver, therefore, refers to the liquid metal mercury which appears to move or flow quickly.
2. Ed: The suffix "-ed" is a common suffix in English that is used to form past tense verbs or past participles. In this case, it is added to "quicksilver" to form the past participle "quicksilvered", indicating that something has been treated or coated with mercury.