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鋈 is a specialized historical term for a white metal, especially silver or a silvery alloy, and the process of plating or coating objects with it. The character combines the metal radical 金 at the bottom, indicating metal, with 沃 above providing the sound and perhaps suggesting the pouring of molten metal during plating. In classical Chinese literature and historical records, it often refers to silver-plated ornaments on horse harnesses, ceremonial weapons, and carriage fittings, marking high status or rank. Today, its usage is mostly confined to these historical and literary contexts concerning ancient metallurgy.
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