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Glite Dictionary
✨ A shiny coating 🛠️ A coating method 🖌️ To coat with varnish
japanning

japanning

9.9
A hard shiny finish on metal and wood that looks like Asian lacquer
  • noun
  • /dʒəˈpænɪŋ/
  • Archaic
translation icon : japón
  • The antique tray was decorated with beautiful japanning that had lasted for centuries.

Examples

  • Collectors value items with original japanning for their historical authenticity.

  • Restorers carefully repaired the damaged japanning on the old metal box.

  • The furniture was finished with a beautiful japanning technique.

  • Her antique table features exquisite japanning that shines brightly.

  • Using japanning, craftsmen can give wooden furniture a glossy finish that resembles traditional lacquer.

  • Many antique pieces feature japanning, showcasing intricate designs and a shiny black coating.

  • The artisan spoke about the techniques of japanning to achieve a beautiful and long-lasting surface on his creations.

How Glossy

mirror
775 1.0
japanning
  • Archaic
9.9
satin
3 2.7
matte
  • US
14 5.3

Surface Forms

japanning singular
japannings plural

Morphology

japanning = japan (semi-transparent) = japan + ing

Formed regularly from the verb 'japan' with the -ing suffix; the morphological process is straightforward.

Etymology

Japanning comes from Japan, because European makers tried to copy the 'shiny lacquer' seen on Japanese objects; so the word means a hard, glossy finish on metal or wood.