papier-mache: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Technical (Arts & Crafts), Informal (Metaphorical)
Quick answer
What does “papier-mache” mean?
A material made from paper pulp mixed with glue or paste, which hardens as it dries, used to make various objects.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A material made from paper pulp mixed with glue or paste, which hardens as it dries, used to make various objects.
Any object or structure that appears flimsy, weak, or insubstantial, despite possibly having a strong appearance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The term retains its French spelling with the accent. The metaphorical usage is equally common in both varieties.
Connotations
In both varieties, the literal use is neutral/technical. The metaphorical use carries a negative connotation of cheapness, fragility, or deception.
Frequency
The literal term has moderate frequency in arts/crafts contexts. The metaphorical usage is less frequent but understood.
Grammar
How to Use “papier-mache” in a Sentence
[made] of papier-mâchéa papier-mâché [noun][verb] a papier-mâché [noun]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “papier-mache” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The children will papier-mâché the balloon to create a planet model.
- She taught the class how to papier-mâché properly.
American English
- We're going to papier-mâché the frame for the parade float.
- He papier-mâchéd the entire sculpture himself.
adjective
British English
- They built a magnificent papier-mâché dragon for the festival.
- Her papier-mâché vase was surprisingly sturdy.
American English
- The parade featured a huge papier-mâché eagle.
- It was just a papier-mâché facade, not a real wall.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly used metaphorically in criticism: 'Their business plan was papier-mâché.'
Academic
Used in art history, design, and craft studies. The metaphorical use appears in literary criticism.
Everyday
Common in primary school, hobbyist, and festival contexts (e.g., masks, piñatas). Metaphorical use understood.
Technical
Standard term in arts, crafts, theatre set design, and sculpture.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “papier-mache”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “papier-mache”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “papier-mache”
- Spelling: 'paper mache' (missing accent, incorrect spelling), 'papier mache' (missing hyphen and accent), 'paper-mache'. Pronunciation: ˈpeɪ.pər ˈmætʃ/ (incorrect final sound).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for formal and correct writing. The hyphen and accent on the 'e' (papier-mâché) are standard, reflecting its French origin. Informally, it is often seen as 'paper mache'.
Yes, though less common. It means to make or cover something with papier-mâché (e.g., 'We papier-mâchéd the balloon').
Cardboard is a manufactured, rigid sheet material. Papier-mâché is a wet, mouldable pulp or layered paste that hardens into a solid, often shaped, form.
It is almost always negative, implying something is fake, flimsy, deceptive, or lacking substance behind an impressive appearance.
A material made from paper pulp mixed with glue or paste, which hardens as it dries, used to make various objects.
Papier-mache is usually formal, technical (arts & crafts), informal (metaphorical) in register.
Papier-mache: in British English it is pronounced ˌpæp.ieɪ ˈmæʃ.eɪ, and in American English it is pronounced ˌpeɪ.pər məˈʃeɪ. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “like papier-mâché (metaphorical: superficially strong but weak)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'paper' and 'mash' mashed together - PAPER-MASH -> PAPIER-MÂCHÉ.
Conceptual Metaphor
STRUCTURE IS STRENGTH / AUTHENTICITY IS SOLIDITY. Papier-mâché represents the opposite: a false structure, a hollow strength.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary characteristic of something described metaphorically as 'like papier-mâché'?