[], (Noun)

Definitions:
- Any of various alloys of copper and gold, used for jewellery and ornamental objects in South East Asia and (in later use) in Central and South America. Compare "tumbaga".

- Any of various gold-coloured copper alloys typically containing from 82 to 99 per cent copper, the rest usually being made up largely or entirely of zinc, used chiefly for cheap jewellery or decorative objects. Also with modifying word more precisely indicating the colour (which is dependent upon the copper content), as "red tombac" (above 92 per cent copper), "yellow tombac" (approx. 82 to 90 per cent copper).


Phrases:

Origin:
early 17th century. Partly from a Thai word now pronounced/taːmpʰaʔ/, denoting an alloy of copper and gold (now literary)