Engraving: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the art or process of carving a design into a surface, especially for printing or decoration. Often implies a technique using tools to create detailed, intricate designs.

• The artist spent hours on the engraving of the metal plate.
• He bought an engraving of a classic cityscape for his living room.

Refers to a printmaking process involving the use of acid to cut into a metal surface to create a design, often used in fine art and printmaking.

• He displayed a collection of Renaissance etchings in the gallery.
• The etching process requires careful application of acids and resists.

Used to describe the process of cutting and shaping materials like wood, stone, or ice into artistic forms, often in three dimensions. Common in sculpture and decorative arts.

• The totem pole featured beautiful animal carvings.
• She took up carving as a hobby, creating small wooden animals.

Used when writing or carving words, names, or symbols onto a surface, often for the purpose of identification, dedication, or commemoration.

• They inscribed their initials on the tree trunk as a symbol of their love.
• The ancient tablet was inscribed with hieroglyphics.

This word is commonly used when talking about detailed designs cut into a hard surface or the art of making such designs. It often refers to traditional or specialized techniques in art and jewelry.

• The artist spent hours on the engraving, ensuring every line was perfect
• The museum has a collection of ancient engravings on display

This word is generally used to describe a mark or design left on a surface by pressure. It's more about the result rather than the process and can be used in various contexts beyond art, such as when discussing emotions or opinions.

• The impression left by the seal on the wax was exquisite
• His first impression of the city was very positive

Etching is specifically related to the process of using acid to cut into a metal surface to create a design. It is a term frequently used in art and printmaking.

• The etching process requires careful application to avoid over-acidification
• She bought a beautiful etching of a landscape at the gallery

This term is used primarily in the context of printing and publishing. It refers to the process of creating plates for printing, which can include engraving or etching as part of the process.

• The printing company specializes in high-quality plate-making for books
• Plate-making requires precision to ensure the quality of the final print

Used when referring to the art or process of carving a design into a hard surface, especially in a detailed and permanent way. Commonly used in artistic and technical contexts.

• The antique shop had a beautiful engraving of a cityscape on metal.
• She specializes in the engraving of jewelry and metal plaques.

Often used in contexts involving the removal of material from a surface to create a design or pattern, commonly with acid or lasers. Can be used in both artistic and industrial contexts.

• The artist used acid to etch intricate designs into the copper plate.
• The company etched its logo onto every piece of glassware they manufactured.

Used when writing or engraving text or symbols on a surface. Often has a formal or ceremonial tone, especially when marking an object with names, dates, or messages.

• She inscribed her name on the inside cover of the book.
• The monument was inscribed with the names of war heroes.

Typically used to describe creating a mark or design by pushing an object into a material, leaving a physical impression. Commonly used in everyday contexts and in discussions about creating a lasting effect.

• The seal was impressed onto the wax to officially close the letter.
• The footprint impressed in the mud was clearly visible.