matte: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral, but leaning towards technical/artistic in specific domains.
Quick answer
What does “matte” mean?
A surface finish that is smooth but without shine or gloss.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A surface finish that is smooth but without shine or gloss.
A term describing a non-reflective finish in paint, photography, makeup, and screens. Also, a border or background in picture framing.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The spelling 'matte' is more common in US English for the finish. UK English also widely accepts 'matte', but the spelling 'matt' is more traditional, especially in BrE print.
Connotations
Identical in meaning; difference is purely orthographic. 'Matte' is the globally recognized standard in technical fields (e.g., film, paint).
Frequency
'Matte' is increasingly dominant in both varieties, especially in branding and digital contexts. 'Matt' persists in some UK publications and older texts.
Grammar
How to Use “matte” in a Sentence
be + mattehave a + matte + finishgive sth a + matte + lookprefer + matte + to glossyVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “matte” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The conservator will matt the varnish to reduce glare on the old painting.
American English
- The technician will matte the screen protector for a glare-free view.
adverb
British English
- The photo was printed matt to avoid reflections under glass.
American English
- The surface was finished matte to hide fingerprints.
adjective
British English
- She prefers a matt foundation for her complexion.
American English
- The new phone has a beautiful matte black back.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in marketing for products (cosmetics, paint, phones) to describe a premium, non-shiny finish.
Academic
Used in art history, materials science, and photography to describe surface properties.
Everyday
Common when discussing makeup choices, paint for walls, or phone/tablet screens.
Technical
Precise term in painting, photography (matte box, matte screen), printing, and cinematography.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “matte”
- Misspelling as 'mat' (a floor covering) or 'mate' (friend).
- Using 'glossy' as a synonym instead of an antonym.
- Pronouncing the final 'e' (it is silent).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are correct. 'Matte' is more common globally and in American English. 'Matt' is a traditional British variant.
Yes, though it's less common. It means to give something a non-glossy finish (e.g., 'to matte a photograph').
A glossy or shiny finish.
No. 'Matte' comes from French 'mat' (dull), while 'mattress' comes from Arabic via Latin and Italian, meaning 'cushion'.
A surface finish that is smooth but without shine or gloss.
Matte is usually neutral, but leaning towards technical/artistic in specific domains. in register.
Matte: 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
- “No specific idioms. Often part of descriptive phrases (e.g., 'a matte of respectability' is not standard).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'matte' as 'flat' but with double 't'—like a flat surface that traps light instead of reflecting it.
Conceptual Metaphor
DULLNESS IS SOPHISTICATION (in design contexts, a matte finish is often seen as more elegant and modern than a shiny one).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'matte' LEAST likely be used?