STEELIE Meaning and
Definition
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A "steelie" refers to a small glass marble made of steel or containing a steel core, generally used in games or as a collectible item. The term is commonly associated with the toy game of marbles, where players take turns flicking their marbles against one another, aiming to knock their opponents' marbles out of a designated playing area. In this game, the steelie typically serves as the most coveted marble due to its denser composition, providing it with increased weight and greater momentum during play.
Often possessing a shiny, metallic appearance, a steelie can be particularly attractive to collectors or enthusiasts due to its uniqueness. These marbles can come in a variety of sizes, typically ranging from 0.5 to 2 centimeters in diameter, and feature different designs or patterns within the glass casing. Steelies are frequently sought after and traded among marble enthusiasts, with some individuals even specializing in the collection and trading of these specific marbles.
Outside the realm of marbles, the term "steelie" can sometimes be used more generically to refer to any small object made of steel, such as a small steel ball bearing, with a similar size or purpose. However, in most cases, the term steelie is primarily associated with the game of marbles and its specific context within that realm.
Etymology of STEELIE
The word "steelie" is a slang term used to refer to a type of small glass marble, often with a metallic appearance. The term "steelie" is believed to have originated in the United States, particularly in the early 20th century.
The etymology of the word is not entirely clear, but it is likely derived from the word "steel" due to the marbles' shiny, metallic appearance. These marbles were often made with a colored glass base and a thin layer of metallic coating, giving them a steel-like look. Over time, the term "steelie" became associated specifically with this type of marble.
