impasto

noun

im·​pas·​to im-ˈpa-(ˌ)stō How to pronounce impasto (audio)
-ˈpä-
plural impastos
1
: the thick application of a pigment to a canvas or panel in painting
also : the body of pigment so applied
2
: raised decoration on ceramic ware usually of slip or enamel
impastoed
im-ˈpa-(ˌ)stōd How to pronounce impasto (audio)
-ˈpä-
adjective

Examples of impasto 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.
Some are small, less than two feet square; these tend to be lushly painted, with thick impasto and bravura brushwork. — Calvin Tomkins, The New Yorker, 16 Jan. 2023 Swirling accents of kelly green or marigold delight in their contrast, as do little flecks of impasto on lips or knuckles. — Grace Edquist, Vogue, 8 Nov. 2022 The paint itself ranges from thick impasto to thin washes that can presage those of Color Field paintings. — Roberta Smith, New York Times, 27 July 2023 The impasto of time and experiences with the firstborn change how parents behave with subsequent children. — Christine Smallwood, Harpers Magazine, 24 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for impasto

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from impastare

First Known Use

1784, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of impasto was in 1784

Browse Nearby Words

impaste
impasto
impaternate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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More from Merriam-Webster on impasto

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about impasto

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