etch
/etʃ/ IELTSAcademic
verb
To cut or carve a design, picture, or words into a hard surface, usually with acid, a tool, or a laser. It can also mean to make a strong and lasting impression in memory.
- She etched his initials on the metal ring.
- The scene was etched in my memory.
- The artist etched the glass carefully.
Adinary Nuance
Etch is more precise than carve or scratch. Use etch when the mark is made with acid, a sharp tool, or a strong process on a hard surface. For memory or feelings, it suggests a deep, lasting impression, not just a quick moment.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- khắc
- Spanish
- grabar
- Chinese
- 蚀刻
- Japanese
- エッチングする
- Korean
- 에칭하다
Etymology
Etch came into English in the 16th century from Dutch and Low German words meaning “to bite” or “to cut.” It was first used for making prints on metal plates.
Common phrases
etched in stoneetched in memoryetched glassacid-etched
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between etch and engrave?
- Etch often uses acid or a chemical process. Engrave usually means cutting directly into the surface with a tool.
- Can etch be used for feelings or memories?
- Yes. It means something was remembered very clearly and for a long time.
- Is etch a formal word?
- It is fairly formal and common in writing about art, design, and memory.