Definition: The word "metallif" in Latin means "steel", from which it derived its name, referring to the substance itself rather than its properties such as conductivity or strength. In English language, the term "metalliferous soil" refers to a type of soil that contains a significant amount of iron oxides, or ferric oxide, and is highly susceptible to corrosion. Metallif soil typically occurs in arid regions where water seeps into the soil surface through cracks and crevices. The word "metallif" can also refer to the process of making metals, which involves turning a raw metal like iron into a solid or liquid form by heating it. This is often done using electricity or heat sources such as torches or electric arc furnaces. In summary, the word "metallif" refers to a substance that contains a significant amount of iron oxides and is highly susceptible to corrosion. It can also refer to the process of making metals, which involves turning raw metals like iron into solid or liquid form by heating them.