chinese lacquer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “chinese lacquer” mean?
A durable, high-gloss varnish or resin originally from East Asia, traditionally made from the sap of the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A durable, high-gloss varnish or resin originally from East Asia, traditionally made from the sap of the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum).
The art, craft, or finished objects (e.g., boxes, furniture) created using this technique, often involving multiple layers and decorative inlay. It can also refer to modern synthetic finishes that imitate its appearance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling of related terms follows regional norms (e.g., BrE 'lacquered', AmE 'lacquered').
Connotations
Slightly stronger association with antiques and museums in BrE. In AmE, may appear more in modern interior design or furniture contexts.
Frequency
Low frequency in both dialects, used primarily in specialist fields.
Grammar
How to Use “chinese lacquer” in a Sentence
[Noun] made of Chinese lacquer[Noun] finished with Chinese lacquerto lacquer [Object] in the Chinese style[Noun] adorned with Chinese lacquerVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chinese lacquer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The craftsman will lacquer the cabinet in the traditional Chinese manner.
American English
- They lacquered the table with an authentic Chinese finish.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in high-end furniture, antique, and interior design industries (e.g., 'The collection features desks with authentic Chinese lacquer.')
Academic
Used in art history, material culture, and conservation studies (e.g., 'The dissertation examines Song Dynasty Chinese lacquer techniques.')
Everyday
Rare. Might be used when describing a decorative object (e.g., 'This jewelry box is made of Chinese lacquer.')
Technical
Used in restoration, museology, and fine craft (e.g., 'The conservator repaired the crack in the Chinese lacquer layer.')
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chinese lacquer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chinese lacquer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chinese lacquer”
- Misspelling 'lacquer' as 'lacker'.
- Using it as a verb for modern spray paints (e.g., 'I lacquered the car'). The term is more specific.
- Confusing it with 'shellac', which is a different resin from insects.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Traditional Chinese lacquer is a natural resin from tree sap, requiring a complex, multi-layer application process. Modern 'lacquer' often refers to synthetic quick-drying paints or finishes.
While the technique exists across East Asia, 'Chinese lacquer' specifically denotes the Chinese tradition. For Japanese works, 'urushi' or 'Japanese lacquer' is more accurate. In a general, non-specialist context, it might be used loosely.
Primarily uncountable when referring to the material (e.g., 'a layer of Chinese lacquer'). Countable when referring to finished objects (e.g., 'a collection of fine Chinese lacquers').
Avoid extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and moisture. Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Never use abrasive cleaners or soak in water.
A durable, high-gloss varnish or resin originally from East Asia, traditionally made from the sap of the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum).
Chinese lacquer is usually formal, technical in register.
Chinese lacquer: in British English it is pronounced /ˌtʃaɪˈniːz ˈlæk.ər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌtʃaɪˈniz ˈlæk.ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None specific to this phrase.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'CHINA'S SHEEN' – Chinese Lacquer gives a high SHEEN.
Conceptual Metaphor
DURABILITY IS STRENGTH (e.g., 'The lacquer has protected it for centuries.'); LUXURY IS SHININESS/SMOOTHNESS.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary source of traditional Chinese lacquer?