Shellack: meaning, definitions and examples
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shellack
[ ʃəˈlæk ]
coating surface
To shellac is to coat or treat a surface with shellac, which is a resin obtained from the secretions of the lac bug. This process typically gives a glossy finish and is often used in woodworking and as a finishing touch on various surfaces.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He decided to shellac the wooden table for a shiny finish.
- The art piece was shellacked to enhance its colors.
- They plan to shellac the floors to protect them from wear.
- I will shellac the artwork to preserve it for longer.
- The contractor suggested to shellac the cabinets for durability.
substance used
Shellac is a natural resin that is commonly used as a coating, primer, or sealer. It is obtained by harvesting the secretions of the lac beetle, processed into flakes, and then dissolved in alcohol to create a usable liquid form.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I bought some shellac to finish my woodworking project.
- The shellac used in the recipe gives a unique flavor.
- They coated the antiques with shellac to protect them from dust.
- Shellac is often used in food processing as a glazing agent.
- The artist applied shellac to give the sculpture a smooth finish.
Translations
Translations of the word "shellack" in other languages:
🇵🇹 shellac
🇮🇳 शेलैक
🇩🇪 Schellack
🇮🇩 shellac
🇺🇦 шелак
🇵🇱 szelak
🇯🇵 シェラック
🇫🇷 gomme-laque
🇪🇸 laca
🇹🇷 shellac
🇰🇷 쉘락
🇸🇦 شيلك
🇨🇿 shellac
🇸🇰 shellac
🇨🇳 虫胶
🇸🇮 šelak
🇮🇸 shellac
🇰🇿 шеллак
🇬🇪 შელაკი
🇦🇿 şelak
🇲🇽 laca
Etymology
The term 'shellac' is derived from the Hindi word 'shilàk', which means 'stone'. The word refers specifically to the hardened resin secreted by the lac insect, which was historically harvested in India. The use of shellac can be traced back thousands of years to ancient India, where it was used in traditional art and crafts. The product then spread to Europe and the Americas during colonial times, when it was introduced as a film-forming agent in varnishes and paints. By the 19th century, shellac became increasingly popular in various industries, ranging from woodworking to food processing, due to its versatility and protective qualities. Today, while synthetic alternatives are available, shellac remains a favored choice among artisans and craftspeople for its natural properties and aesthetic appeal.