Engrave Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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engrave

[ɪnˈɡreɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

on metal

To carve, cut, or etch into a material, especially metal, by using a sharp tool or laser.

Synonyms

carve, etch, impress, inscribe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
engrave	Used when cutting or carving a design or inscription into a hard surface, usually with fine detail. Often used for jewelry or historical artifacts. She decided to engrave their initials into the gold locket
carve	Commonly used for shaping or cutting a material like wood, stone, or ice. Can refer to both simple and intricate designs. He learned to carve wooden animals from his grandfather
etch	Typically used for cutting or corroding a design onto a metal surface through a chemical process. Often seen in artistic contexts or metal engraving. The artist used acid to etch the intricate patterns onto the metal plate
inscribe	Often used when writing, carving, or engraving words, especially in a formal or ceremonial manner. Often seen on monuments, gravestones, or books. They decided to inscribe a heartfelt message inside the wedding bands
impress	Involves pressing a shape or design into a softer material so that it leaves a mark. Commonly used with wax, clay, or soft metals. They impress the company logo into the wax seal on each envelope

Examples of usage

The jeweler engraved the couple's initials on the back of the watch.
She engraved a beautiful design on the silver bracelet.
The artist engraved a detailed image of the city skyline onto the metal plate.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

on wood

To cut or carve a design or words onto wood by using a sharp tool.

Synonyms

carve, etch, impress, inscribe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
engrave	Often used for creating detailed designs or text on hard surfaces like metal or stone, typically with the intent of lasting permanence. They decided to engrave their wedding date on the inside of their rings. The trophy was engraved with his name.
carve	Commonly used for shaping wood or stone by cutting away material. It can refer to both simple and intricate designs. She loves to carve wooden figurines in her free time. The ancient people carved images into the rock.
etch	Usually refers to cutting into a material using acid or a similar technique. Often used for creating artworks, circuit boards, or other fine details. The artist used acid to etch an image onto the glass. His initials were etched into the surface of the watch.
inscribe	Usually refers to writing or engraving words, characters, or symbols onto a surface, often for commemorative or formal purposes. They inscribed their names on the monument. The book was inscribed with a heartfelt message.
impress	Generally means to leave a mark or stamp on a surface by applying pressure. It is also used metaphorically to mean making a strong impact on someone's mind. The seal was used to impress a design into the wax. Her talent really impressed the judges.

Examples of usage

The craftsman engraved intricate patterns onto the wooden furniture.
He engraved his name on the bottom of the wooden sculpture.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

Engraving is a key technique in printmaking, where artists create images by carving into a metal plate.
Famous artists like Albrecht Dürer used engraving to produce intricate works that were widely distributed in the Renaissance.

Technology

Modern engraving can be done using lasers, allowing for precise designs on various materials, including glass and stone.
3D engraving technology has emerged, adding a new dimension to traditional techniques and providing detailed sculptural works.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, the practice of engraving has been used to create memorial plaques, jewelry, and commemorative items.
Engraved items are often considered more personal and meaningful, as they can hold sentimental messages for loved ones.

Science

Engraving techniques can be used in biology for creating detailed patterns that help in the study of cell structures.
The precision in engravings is vital in fields like micro-manufacturing, leading to advances in technology and materials.

Origin of 'engrave'

Main points about word origin

The word 'engrave' comes from the Old French word 'engraver', which means 'to carve'.
Its roots trace back to the Latin 'in-gravare', meaning 'to make heavy', hinting at the deep carving into a surface.

The word 'engrave' originated from the Old French word 'engraver', which in turn came from the Latin word 'in' meaning 'in' or 'on', and 'graver' meaning 'to carve'. The practice of engraving has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations where engravings were used on various materials for decorative and informational purposes.

See also: grave, gravel, gravely, graveyard, gravy.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,553, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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29551 prokaryotes
29552 scrofula
29553 engrave
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29555 parka
29556 nonce
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