etching Definition
- 1a printmaking process in which a metal plate is first coated with an acid-resistant substance, then worked with an etching needle to create an intaglio design, and finally exposed to acid to produce the print
- 2the design produced by this process
Using etching: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "etching" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The museum has a collection of etchings by Rembrandt.
Example
She learned how to do etching in her art class.
Example
The etching on the metal plate was very intricate and detailed.
etching Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for etching
Phrases with etching
soft-ground etching
a type of etching that produces a soft, velvety line
Example
The artist used soft-ground etching to create a delicate texture in the print.
a type of etching that uses a needle to scratch directly into the metal plate, producing a rougher line than traditional etching
Example
The drypoint etching gave the print a raw and gritty feel.
a type of etching that creates tonal areas by using a powdered resin to protect the metal plate from acid
Example
The aquatint etching gave the print a range of light and dark tones.
Origins of etching
from Dutch 'etsen', meaning 'to eat away'
Summary: etching in Brief
Etching [ˈɛtʃɪŋ] is a printmaking process that involves coating a metal plate with an acid-resistant substance, then creating a design with an etching needle. The plate is then exposed to acid, which eats away at the unprotected areas, leaving behind the design. Etchings are often highly detailed and can be used to create a range of textures and tones. Examples include 'The museum has a collection of etchings by Rembrandt.' and 'She learned how to do etching in her art class.'
