Final answer:
A malleable metal workpiece can be shaped or deformed under pressure without breaking. This property, combined with ductility, makes metals useful for a wide range of applications, including construction and electronics.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a metal workpiece is said to be "malleable," it most nearly means it is capable of being shaped. Malleability is a defining characteristic of many metals, which allows them to be deformed under pressure, such as hammering, without shattering.
This property makes metals incredibly versatile for various applications, from constructing buildings to creating intricate jewelry. Metals are not only malleable but also ductile, which means they can be drawn into thin wires. The combination of these properties, along with their ability to conduct heat and electricity well and their variable hardness and melting temperature, underpins their widespread use in engineering and technology.