Bible Dictionary
Dross
Dross is the refuse or impurity separated from precious metal during smelting. Scripture uses it figuratively for what is base, corrupt, or worthless.
Definition
Dross is the refuse or impurity separated from precious metal during smelting. The word can also refer to base or worthless material, including the metal before it is refined.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses dross figuratively for what is base, corrupt, or worthless. It describes the wicked, corrupt people, and material that requires purification.
Historical Background
The literal image comes from the process of melting precious metal and separating its refuse. The supplied material specifically associates dross with silver smelting.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The impurities of silver separated from the one in the process of melting (Prov. 25:4; 26:23; Ps. 119:119). It is also used to denote the base metal itself, probably before it is smelted, in Isa. 1:22, 25.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>dros (sigh): The refuse of smelting of precious metal (Pr 25:4; 26:23); used figuratively of what is base or worthless (Isa 1:22,25; Eze 22:18,19; Ps 119:119).</p>