matt: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Formal/Technical, but also common in everyday contexts related to art, design, and photography.
Quick answer
What does “matt” mean?
A surface finish that is not shiny or glossy.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A surface finish that is not shiny or glossy; lacking luster.
A paint or coating that dries to a non-reflective finish, or a colour/paper/texture with this quality. Also used as a verb meaning to give something a matt finish.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In UK English, "matt" is the standard spelling for the finish. In US English, "matte" is more common, though "matt" is understood. The proper noun (name) is always "Matt" in both variants.
Connotations
Neutral technical descriptor in both. In arts/design contexts, it implies sophistication, subtlety, or a preference over glossy finishes for reduced glare.
Frequency
Equally common in relevant domains (art, photography, printing, interior design) in both varieties. The spelling difference is the main distinction.
Grammar
How to Use “matt” in a Sentence
[Adj] - matt + noun (e.g., matt paint)[Verb] - to matt (down) + noun (e.g., to matt the varnish)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “matt” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The framer will matt the print before mounting it.
- You can matt down the gloss with a special spray.
American English
- She asked to have the photograph matted in white.
- A light sanding will matte the shiny surface.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in product descriptions for paints, coatings, electronics (screens), cosmetics.
Academic
Used in art history, materials science, and design papers to describe surface properties.
Everyday
Common when discussing home decoration (paint, furniture), photo prints, or makeup choices.
Technical
Precise term in printing, photography (matt photo paper), automotive finishes, and industrial coatings.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “matt”
- Using 'matt' as a verb incorrectly (e.g., 'He matted the photo' is correct for mounting, but 'He matted the glaze' is correct for finishing).
- Confusing 'matt' (finish) with 'mat' (a small rug or a tangled mass).
- Misspelling as 'mat' when referring to the finish.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Matt' is the standard British English spelling. 'Matte' is a common variant, especially in American English. They mean the same thing.
Yes, though less common. It means to give a matt finish to something (e.g., 'to matt down a glaze'). In framing, 'to mat/matte' means to mount with a cardboard border.
In paint terminology, 'matt' and 'flat' are often used interchangeably for the least shiny finish, though 'flat' can sometimes be even less reflective than 'matt' in specific brand ranges.
No, they are etymologically distinct. 'Matt' as a finish comes from French 'mat', meaning 'dull'. The name 'Matt' is a short form of 'Matthew', from Hebrew.
A surface finish that is not shiny or glossy.
Matt is usually formal/technical, but also common in everyday contexts related to art, design, and photography. in register.
Matt: in British English it is pronounced /mat/, and in American English it is pronounced /mæt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None specific to this sense. The word is rarely used idiomatically.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a MAT placed on a shiny table – it covers the shine and makes the surface MATT.
Conceptual Metaphor
LACK OF LIGHT IS DULLNESS (e.g., 'a matt personality' is possible but rare, implying uninteresting).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'matt' LEAST likely to be used?