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to etch
01
to cut or carve designs or writings on a hard surface, often using acid or a laser beam
Transitive: to etch a design on a surface | to etch a design onto a surface
Example
The scientist etched a microscopic circuit on a silicon wafer.
The glass artist etched a beautiful design onto the transparent surface.
The artist etched a detailed illustration on a metal plate.
02
to engrave an image or design onto a block of material, such as wood or metal, for the purpose of printing
Transitive: to etch a surface or block
Example
In the traditional art of woodblock printing, craftsmen would etch the wooden blocks with scenes of everyday life.
Using specialized tools, the engraver carefully etched a copper plate, readying it for printing.
The printmaker spent hours etching a zinc plate.
03
to remove specific portions of a material's surface through chemical or physical means
Transitive: to etch a material
Example
The manufacturer etched the semiconductor chip to form the transistors.
The researcher etched the glass slide to prepare it for the experiment.
The engineer used a strong acid to etch the copper layer from the printed circuit board.
04
to make something distinctly visible or noticeable
Transitive: to etch sth
Example
The headlights of the oncoming cars etched the contours of the road ahead.
The harsh sunlight etched the contours of the mountains against the clear blue sky.
The sculptor used strategic lighting to etch the shadows and highlights of the sculpture.
Example
The scientist etched a microscopic circuit on a silicon wafer.
The glass artist etched a beautiful design onto the transparent surface.
The artist etched a detailed illustration on a metal plate.
The jeweler etched intricate patterns onto the silver pendant.
The printmaker used a technique to etch fine lines onto the copper plate.
