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Glite Dictionary
japanned

japanned

8.6
Covered with a shiny black paint like Japanese lacquer
  • adjective
  • /dʒəˈpænd/
  • Archaic
translation icon : lacado
  • She restored the japanned surface of the clock to its original gloss.

Examples

  • The antique store featured a collection of japanned furniture that reflected the elegance of traditional Japanese lacquer techniques.

  • The old cabinet was japanned to give it a shiny, black appearance.

  • Collectors admire the japanned finish on antique boxes and trays.

  • The table was beautifully japanned with intricate designs.

  • Is this cabinet japanned or simply painted?

  • The artisan showcased his skill by creating a beautifully japanned chest that gleamed with a rich, dark finish.

  • She admired the japanned boxes on display, noting their glossy surfaces and intricate designs that highlighted their craftsmanship.

Synonyms

enameled
vsjapanned
  • US
1 4.2

Having a smooth, hard, shiny surface for protection or decoration

is a dark glossy hard coating from Japanese lacquerwork not a general decorative coat
varnished
vsjapanned
4.7

Having a shiny clear layer that protects things like wood or furniture

is a dark glossy hard coating from Japanese lacquerwork not a basic protective coat
glazed
vsjapanned
3.5

Having a smooth shiny surface, often on pottery or tiles

is a dark glossy hard coating from Japanese lacquerwork not a ceramic finish

How Glossy

varnished
4.7
japanned
  • Archaic
8.6
satin
3 2.7
matte
2 3.5

Surface Forms

japanned positive

Morphology

japanned = japan (transparent) = japan + ed

Formed by the verb 'japan' (to lacquer) + -ed; the meaning 'coated with japan/lacquer' follows the regular past-participial adjectival pattern.

Etymology

Japanned comes from Japan, because European makers copied the shiny black 'lacquer' used on Japanese boxes and furniture. They called their imitation japanning, so something 'japanned' is coated with a glossy, black 'varnish' in that style.