etching

noun

etch·​ing ˈe-chiŋ How to pronounce etching (audio)
Synonyms of etchingnext
1
a
: the action or process of etching
b
: the art of producing pictures or designs by printing from an etched metal plate
2
a
: an etched design
b
: an impression from an etched plate

Examples of etching in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dull spots are typically caused by etching, which can occur when acidic substances or harsh cleaning products come into contact with the stone. — Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 6 June 2026 Certain photos of those rehearsal dinner attendees showed guests clutching black velvet boxes with an etching of two Ts and a heart. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 3 July 2026 The man in the etching, the Good Samaritan, can transcend his nature, his inherent tribalism, and offer loving aid to one not of his own kind. — Adam Gopnik, New Yorker, 25 May 2026 Some examples from Myers include the subtle etching in marble, the soft wear of limestone, the lived-in texture of linen, or the subtle fading and marks that form in hardwood floors. — Lacey Ramburger, The Spruce, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for etching

Word History

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of etching was in 1634

Phrases Containing etching

Rhymes for etching

See All Rhymes for etching

Browse Nearby Words

etch figure
etching
etching ball
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Cite this Entry

“Etching.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/etching. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

etching

noun
etch·​ing ˈech-iŋ How to pronounce etching (audio)
1
a
: the act or process of etching a hard material
b
: the art of printing from an etched metal plate
2
a
: a product of etching
b
: a print made from an etched metal plate

More from Merriam-Webster on etching

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for etching

Nglish: Translation of etching for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about etching

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