what is a nonmetal
The definition of nonmetal is an element that doesnât have the characteristics of metal including: ability to conduct heat or electricity, luster, or flexibility. An example of a nonmetal element is carbon. any of those elements lacking the characteristics of a metal; specif., any of the electronegative elements (e.g., oxygen, carbon, nitrogen, fluorine, phosphorus, sulfur) whose oxides form acids and stable compounds with hydrogen. noun.