Enamelling

Part of Speech

Verb (Present participle of "enamel")

Noun (The process or technique of applying enamel)

Pronunciation

/ɪˈnæm.əl.ɪŋ/ (British English)

/ɪˈnæm.lɪŋ/ (American English - often spelled "enameling")

Definitions

• The process of applying a glass-like coating to metal, ceramics, or other materials for decoration or protection.
• The act of coating an object with enamel to make it glossy, durable, or colorful.

Usage Examples

• She spent hours enamelling the metal jewelry with intricate designs.
• The ancient art of enamelling has been practiced for centuries across different cultures.
• The factory specializes in enamelling kitchenware to enhance durability and aesthetics.

Etymology

Derived from Old French "esmailler" (to enamel), which traces back to the Germanic word "smalt" (melted glass or glaze).

Synonyms

• Glazing
• Coating
• Vitreous finishing

Antonyms

• Stripping
• Scraping
• Uncoating

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, the pronunciation includes a clear "-əl" sound (/ɪˈnæm.əl.ɪŋ/), while in American English, the middle syllable is often dropped (/ɪˈnæm.lɪŋ/).

Historical Usage

Enamelling has been used since ancient times in Egyptian, Chinese, Byzantine, and Persian art to create decorative objects, jewelry, and religious artifacts.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, enamelled objects symbolize status and prestige. In Japan, enamelling techniques like "Shippo" are highly prized for their artistic value.

More Information

There are various enamelling techniques, including cloisonné, champlevé, and plique-à-jour. These techniques require high temperatures and careful craftsmanship to ensure a smooth, glossy finish.