Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Cut or impressed into a surface: Describes a design, pattern, or mark that has been permanently carved, engraved, or chemically eaten into a hard material like metal, glass, or stone, creating a recessed image.
   • Made sharp and clear, as if carved: Used figuratively to describe a memory, image, or feature that is extremely clear, distinct, and permanent in one's mind.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective (Literal):
  • The ancient tablet had an etched inscription that told the story of a king.
  • She admired the finely etched lines on the crystal vase.
• Adjective (Figurative):
  • The memory of that day is etched in my mind forever.
  • Worry had etched deep lines onto his face.

Advanced Usage

• "to be etched with something": To have a surface marked or decorated by etching.
  • The glass was etched with a beautiful floral pattern.
• "to be etched into/on something": To be permanently fixed or ingrained (used literally or figuratively).
  • The date was etched into the metal plaque. (Literal)
  • Their kindness is etched on my heart. (Figurative)

Variants and Related Words

• Etch (verb): To cut lines into a surface or to impress firmly.
  • The artist will etch the design onto the copper plate.
• Etching (noun): The art or process of creating etched designs, or a print made from an etched plate.
  • He studied the technique of etching.
  • She bought an etching of the city skyline.

Synonyms

• Engraved: Cut or carved into a hard surface.
• Inscribed: Written or carved on a surface.
• Imprinted: Pressed or stamped onto a surface.
• Indelible (figurative): Making marks that cannot be removed; permanent.

Related Phrases

• Etched in stone: Permanent and unchangeable (often used in the negative: "not etched in stone").
  • The schedule is tentative; it's not etched in stone yet.

Adjective

1. cut or impressed into a surface
   • an incised design
   • engraved invitations