Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Blotting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🖌️
Add to dictionary

blotting

[ˈblɒtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

ink absorption

Blotting refers to the act of absorbing excess ink, moisture, or liquid from a surface, often using a blotting paper. It is frequently used in writing or artistic contexts to maintain a clean and crisp appearance of text or artwork. Blotting can also relate to laboratory techniques, such as blotting procedures in molecular biology, where it involves transferring proteins or nucleic acids onto a membrane for analysis. Overall, the term is associated with a careful and controlled way of extracting or minimizing unwanted residue.

Synonyms

absorption, draining, sopping.

Examples of usage

  • She used a blotting paper to remove the ink spill.
  • The researcher performed a Western blotting to analyze protein expression.
  • He carefully blotted the watercolor painting to avoid smudging.
Context #2 | Verb

to absorb

To blot means to dry or absorb a liquid by pressing a material against it. This action is commonly performed with paper, cloth, or any absorbent material for the purpose of cleaning or drying a surface. Blotting is an essential technique in various domains, such as writing, painting, and cleansing spills. It's often employed to maintain hygiene and neatness while preventing the spread of liquid substances.

Synonyms

dab, soak up, sponge.

Examples of usage

  • She blotted the spilled coffee with a napkin.
  • He quickly blotted his face after sweating.
  • The artist blotted the paint to create texture.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art

  • In art, blotting can also refer to techniques used with watercolors or ink to create texture and patterns.
  • Many famous artists, such as Van Gogh, used blotting techniques to achieve a unique style in their paintings.
  • Blotting is essential in printmaking to remove excess ink for cleaner, sharper images.

School & Writing

  • Students often use blotting paper to absorb excess ink when they use fountain pens, maintaining clean writing.
  • Historically, blotting paper was commonly used before digital technology for editing manuscripts, as it allowed for easy corrections.
  • In professional settings, blotters help to maintain neatness in documents and prevent smudging and unclear markings.

Science

  • In chemistry, blotting is utilized in techniques such as blotting membranes to separate nucleic acids or proteins for analysis.
  • The process of deep blotting is crucial in materials science for creating absorbent products like paper towels or medical dressings.
  • Investigations into absorbency have led scientists to improve materials for better sustainability using less harmful chemicals.

Psychology

  • Studying the effects of visual distractions, researchers find that visual 'blotting' can influence attention and memory retention.
  • The concept of blotting can also signify erasing negative memories in certain psychological therapies.
  • Art therapy sometimes employs blotting techniques to help individuals express emotions in a more freeing and less judgmental way.

Origin of 'blotting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'blot,' meaning a spot or stain, and 'ting,' which implies a process or action.
  • It has roots in Old English, with similar words referring to spots or stains on surfaces.
  • The term has evolved from simple meanings of stains to include more specialized uses in art and writing.

The term 'blotting' derives from the Middle English word 'blotten,' meaning to smudge or stain, which has its roots in the Old Norse word 'blota' meaning 'to blot' or 'to smear.' The original usage related to the act of absorbing excess ink or liquid in writing practices. In the 17th century, 'blotting paper' was developed specifically for this purpose, which became a common tool among writers and artists. The evolution of the term expanded to include various forms of absorption techniques in both artistic and scientific contexts, such as molecular biology, where blotting is used to transfer and analyze biomolecules. Over time, the practice of blotting has remained significant in both literary and scientific disciplines.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,918, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.