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Emboss Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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emboss

[ɪmˈbɒs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

design

To carve, mold, or stamp a design or lettering on a surface so that it stands out in relief.

Synonyms

engrave, imprint, stamp.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
emboss

Used to describe a raised design or pattern on the surface of a material, typically for decorative purposes.

  • She decided to emboss her wedding invitations with elegant swirls.
  • The cover of the book was embossed with a beautiful golden emblem.
imprint

Used to describe marking a surface by pressing something into it, leaving a noticeable, but usually not raised, mark.

  • The child's handprint was imprinted in the wet cement.
  • His face was imprinted in her memory forever.
engrave

Used when carving a design, text, or pattern into a hard surface such as metal, wood, or stone, often for identification or decoration.

  • They decided to engrave their initials on the tree trunk.
  • The jeweler will engrave your name on the inside of the ring.
stamp

Used typically to describe marking something by pressing an inked design, pattern, or text onto a surface using a rubber or metal stamp; also implies official or formal marking.

  • She used a custom stamp to mark her business documents.
  • The passport officer stamped her passport at the border.

Examples of usage

  • Her initials were embossed on the leather cover of the notebook.
  • The company logo was embossed on the front of the business cards.
Context #2 | Noun

printing

A raised design or lettering achieved by stamping a surface.

Synonyms

impression, raised design, relief pattern.

Examples of usage

  • The emboss on the wedding invitation added an elegant touch.
  • The emboss on the book cover made it stand out on the shelf.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art and Craft

  • Many artists and craftsmen use embossing techniques to add depth to greeting cards and invitations, creating a tactile experience.
  • Embossing can be found in leather work, where designs are pressed into leather to produce intricate patterns.
  • In the textile industry, embossing is utilized to create textured fabric designs, often seen in upholstery and fashion.

Industrial Applications

  • Embossing is widely used in packaging, where logos or patterns are raised to enhance brand recognition and visual appeal.
  • The food industry also employs embossing on cookies and candies to give them unique shapes and textures, making them more attractive.
  • In manufacturing, parts may be embossed to add strength and reduce weight, contributing to efficiency in production.

Historical Significance

  • Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, embossed images on metal and stone, demonstrating its long-standing artistic value.
  • In the Middle Ages, embossed designs were commonly used in book covers to convey wealth and beauty through artistry.
  • Royal seals often employed embossing to signify authenticity and importance on documents, adding a layer of security.

Technology

  • Modern embossing techniques include digital embossing, where designs are created using lasers, showcasing advancements in technology.
  • 3D printing has revolutionized embossing by allowing for intricate, customizable designs that were previously difficult to achieve.
  • Embossing in electronics can refer to creating tactile feedback on devices, enhancing user experience by providing physical cues.

Origin of 'emboss'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'imprimere,' meaning 'to press in,' reflecting the method of making designs.
  • In Middle English, 'emboss' referred to raising or creating a surface shape, linking back to pressure and impression.
  • The word has historical usage in crafting both metal and paper, showing its versatility in art forms.

The word 'emboss' originated from the Middle French word 'embocer', meaning 'to swell out'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century. The technique of embossing has been used for centuries to add decorative elements and textural interest to various surfaces, from paper to leather to metal.

See also: boss, bossily, bossy.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,912, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.