Definition

Noun: 1. A type of tin-glazed earthenware pottery: Delft is a style of ceramic ware, typically characterized by a white or cream-colored tin glaze. It is most famous for its hand-painted decoration, traditionally in cobalt blue, though other colors are also used. 2. A specific historical pottery: The term originally refers to pottery produced in the city of Delft in the Netherlands, starting in the 16th century, which was inspired by imported Chinese porcelain.

Usage

• Delft is an uncountable noun used to refer to the pottery style or category as a whole.
• It is often used attributively (like an adjective) before another noun to describe objects made in this style.

Examples

• As a noun:
  • The museum has an impressive collection of 17th-century Delft.
  • She collects antique blue and white Delft.
• Used attributively:
  • They bought a beautiful Delft tile as a souvenir from Amsterdam.
  • The Delft vase was displayed prominently on the mantelpiece.

Advanced Usage

• "Delftware": This is a common synonym and variant for Delft pottery. While "Delft" can refer to the style, "Delftware" is often used to specify the physical objects.
  • The auction featured several fine pieces of Delftware.
• "Delft blue": A term used to describe the characteristic deep blue color associated with traditional Delft pottery.
  • The kitchen was decorated in a Delft blue and white color scheme.

Variants and Related Words

• Delftware (n): Another term for Delft pottery or objects made in the Delft style.
• Faience (n): A broader term for tin-glazed earthenware, of which Delft is a famous type. Delft is a specific kind of faience.

Synonyms

• Tin-glazed earthenware: The general technical category for this type of pottery.
• Delftware: A direct synonym focusing on the objects themselves.
• Faience (in a European context).

Notes on Different Meanings

The word "Delft" primarily refers to the pottery. It is also the name of a city in the Netherlands (Delft, proper noun), which is the origin of this ceramic tradition. The pottery meaning is always used as a common noun (unless starting a sentence).

Noun

1. a style of glazed earthenware; usually white with blue decoration