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Decal: meaning, definitions and examples

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decal

 

[ˈdiːkæl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

car customization

A decal is a design or picture that can be transferred onto a surface. Decals are commonly used for decorating vehicles, walls, laptops, and other items.

Synonyms

label, sticker, transfer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decal

Typically used to refer to decorative stickers or transfers, often applied to surfaces like vehicles, laptops, or windows. Decals can be more formal or professional looking.

  • She put a floral decal on her laptop to make it look unique.
  • The car's window had a decal of the company logo.
sticker

Often used for adhesive images or designs that can be affixed to various surfaces for decoration, fun, or to convey information. Stickers are popular among children and for casual use.

  • She put stickers all over her notebook.
  • The kids were excited to get star stickers for completing their tasks.
transfer

Generally refers to designs that are applied by transferring them from one surface to another, often using heat or pressure. Transfers are commonly used for making custom T-shirts and other fabric items.

  • He made a custom T-shirt using an iron-on transfer.
  • The craft project involved making designs with heat transfers.
label

Commonly used for tags that provide information about an item, such as its contents, price, or instructions. Labels are often seen on products in stores, clothes, or files.

  • The label on the jar listed all the ingredients.
  • Every folder in the cabinet has a label for easy identification.

Examples of usage

  • Many car enthusiasts use decals to personalize their vehicles.
  • She bought a decal of her favorite band to put on her laptop.
  • The decal of a flaming skull looked really cool on the back of his car.
  • The shop sells a variety of decals for customers to choose from.
  • I had a decal made with my name on it for my water bottle.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'decal' comes from 'decalcomania', a French word meaning to transfer images.
  • The word evolved in the mid-20th century as decorative stickers gained popularity.

Art

  • Decals are often used by artists to add intricate designs to surfaces without painting.
  • Famous artists like Andy Warhol incorporated decal techniques to produce pop art, merging commercial art with expressive design.

Technology

  • In modern technology, decals are used in the manufacturing of electronics, adding logos or designs without compromising the device's functionality.
  • Custom decals are essential in branding, allowing companies to promote their identity effectively on a variety of surfaces.

Cultural Impact

  • Decals can express personal style; people use them on cars, laptops, and walls to showcase their interests and identities.
  • In the world of sports, team decals create a sense of belonging among fans, often seen on merchandise and stadiums.

DIY Projects

  • DIY enthusiasts love decals for home decoration, allowing custom designs without the mess of paint or wallpaper.
  • Transferring a decal onto a project can be a fun family activity, encouraging creativity in a simple way.

Translations

Translations of the word "decal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 adesivo

🇮🇳 स्टिकर

🇩🇪 Abziehbild

🇮🇩 stiker

🇺🇦 наклейка

🇵🇱 naklejka

🇯🇵 デカール

🇫🇷 autocollant

🇪🇸 calcomanía

🇹🇷 çıkartma

🇰🇷 데칼

🇸🇦 ملصق

🇨🇿 nálepka

🇸🇰 nálepka

🇨🇳 贴花

🇸🇮 nalepka

🇮🇸 lími

🇰🇿 жапсырма

🇬🇪 სტიკერი

🇦🇿 etiket

🇲🇽 calcomanía

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,277 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.