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Blacking: meaning, definitions and examples

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blacking

 

[ ˈblækɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

color application

Blacking refers to a black substance that is used to cover or coat objects, commonly applied to boots or shoes for protection and shine. It can also represent a form of polish or cream that enhances the appearance of leather items.

Synonyms

cream, polish, shoe polish

Examples of usage

  • He applied blacking to his shoes before the interview.
  • The boot black used a special blacking to make the shoes shine.
  • I bought a tin of blacking for my leather jacket.
Context #2 | Noun

stage terminology

In a theater context, blacking is sometimes used to describe the practice of covering or darkening areas on stage to enhance focus on certain elements of a performance.

Synonyms

darkening, invisibility, shadowing

Examples of usage

  • The director asked for some blacking around the stage props.
  • Blacking off the background helped to highlight the actors.
  • They used blacking techniques to create dramatic lighting effects.

Translations

Translations of the word "blacking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escurecimento

🇮🇳 काला करना

🇩🇪 Schwärzung

🇮🇩 penghitaman

🇺🇦 затемнення

🇵🇱 czernienie

🇯🇵 黒塗り

🇫🇷 noircissement

🇪🇸 oscurecimiento

🇹🇷 karartma

🇰🇷 검은색으로 만들기

🇸🇦 تعتيم

🇨🇿 zčernění

🇸🇰 zčernanie

🇨🇳 黑化

🇸🇮 temnjenje

🇮🇸 myrking

🇰🇿 қаралау

🇬🇪 შავდება

🇦🇿 qara rəngdə boyama

🇲🇽 oscurecimiento

Etymology

The term 'blacking' has its origins in the noun 'black', which stems from the Old English word 'blaec', meaning 'black' or 'dark'. The use of 'blacking' as a term has evolved, particularly in the 19th century when it became commonly associated with shoe care. The application of blacking, typically a paste or liquid, was popularized in the Victorian era as part of maintaining formal dress. The term also gained traction in theatrical contexts, where a 'blacking' technique served to direct audience attention through strategic use of darkness or shading. The multifaceted uses of blacking reflect its role in both everyday life and artistic expression, highlighting the importance of presentation and aesthetics across various activities.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,893, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.