First Known Use: 1634
Dictionary
1etch
verb \ˈech\
: to produce a pattern, design, etc., by using a powerful liquid (called an acid) to cut the surface of metal or glass
Full Definition of ETCH
transitive verb
1
a : to produce (as a pattern or design) on a hard material by eating into the material's surface (as by acid or laser beam) b : to subject to such etching
2
: to delineate or impress clearly <scenes etched in our minds> <pain was etched on his features>
intransitive verb
: to practice etching
— etch·er noun
See etch defined for English-language learners
See etch defined for kids
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Origin of ETCH
Dutch etsen, from German ätzen to etch, corrode, from Old High German azzen to feed; akin to Old High German ezzan to eat — more at eat
2etch
noun
Definition of ETCH
1
: the action or effect of etching a surface
2
: a chemical agent used in etching
First Known Use of ETCH
1896
ETCH Defined for Kids
etch
verb \ˈech\
etchedetch·ing
Definition of ETCH for Kids
: to produce designs or figures on metal or glass by using acid to eat into the surface
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