sgraffito

noun

sgraf·​fi·​to zgra-ˈfē-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce sgraffito (audio)
skra-
plural sgraffiti zgra-ˈfē-(ˌ)tē How to pronounce sgraffito (audio)
skra-
1
: decoration by cutting away parts of a surface layer (as of plaster or clay) to expose a different colored ground compare graffito
2
: something (such as traditional Pennsylvania Dutch pottery) decorated with sgraffito

Examples of sgraffito 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.
The earliest paintings were done in the sgraffito technique, where a light layer of plaster is applied over a darker one and then scraped off to create patterns with the color underneath (think large-scale scratch art). — Hadley Keller, House Beautiful, 23 July 2019 The place is remarkably well-preserved, with tidy houses decorated with flower boxes and ornate sgraffito (decoration scratched into their exterior walls) and flowing mineral water springs around town. — Ann Abel, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from past participle of sgraffire to scratch, produce sgraffito

First Known Use

circa 1730, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sgraffito was circa 1730

Rhymes for sgraffito

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Browse Nearby Words

SGO
sgraffito
Sgt
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Cite this Entry

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

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More from Merriam-Webster on sgraffito

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sgraffito

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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