"Metallic" refers to the properties and characteristics of metals, which are typically shiny, conductive, and malleable. Metals like iron, copper, and gold exhibit these traits, making them useful in various applications, from construction to electronics. The metallic luster is a result of how metals reflect light, giving them a distinctive appearance. In chemistry, "metallic" can describe the bonding and structure of metals. Metallic bonds occur when electrons are shared among a lattice of metal atoms, allowing for conductivity and flexibility. This unique bonding is what enables metals to conduct electricity and heat efficiently, making them essential in everyday technology and infrastructure.