glaze
gleyz
/ɡleɪz/
A liquid mixture applied to ceramics which melts into a glassy, protective layer when fired; (verb) to fit windows with glass, or to apply a shiny coating to food or pottery.
In pottery, a glaze is not paint; it is a chemical mixture of silica, flux, and alumina that undergoes a molecular change in the kiln to become actual glass.
The story behind the word. Glaze developed in Middle English as a direct derivative of the word 'glass'. To glaze literally meant 'to make like glass', whether by putting glass panes into a window frame or by melting a glassy mineral coat onto a clay pot.
Word relationships
- coating: Coating is a general term for any layer applied to a surface, while glaze specifically implies a shiny, glassy, or translucent finish.
- varnish: Varnish is a protective wood finish that dries in the air, whereas ceramic glaze must be fired in a kiln to harden.
Commonly confused with
- slip: Slip is liquid clay used for joining pieces or decorating, while glaze is a mineral mixture that turns to glass when fired.
Word family
- glazed (adjective): Covered with a glaze; having a glassy surface.
- glazier (noun): A person whose job is to fit glass into windows.
Collocations
- ceramic glaze
- glaze over (eyes)
- sugar glaze
- glazed pottery
Idioms & expressions
- eyes glaze over (to become unfocused or show boredom)
Example sentences
- "The potter applied a cobalt blue glaze to the clay bowl before placing it back in the kiln." Applying a finish to pottery.
- "The baker brushed a sweet sugar glaze over the warm cinnamon rolls." Describing a glazed food item.
Memory hook
Think of 'glaze' as 'glass-ize'—turning a dull clay surface into a shiny glass one. Glaze makes clay like glass.
When not to use
Do not use glaze to describe standard acrylic or oil paint applied to wood or canvas.
Fun facts
- Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use glazes, creating a vibrant blue glazed ceramic material known as Egyptian faience over 5,000 years ago.
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