The origin of the term metalloid can be convoluted. Its origin exists in attempts, dating from antiquity, to define the metals and to vary between less typical and typical forms. First, it was applied in the early 19 century to the metals, which floated on water (potassium and sodium), and then to more popularly nonmetals. Earlier usage in the mineralogy, to define a mineral containing a metallic appearance, is sourced to as early as 1800.