glass-blower

glass-blower

A glass-blower shapes a glowing orb of molten glass at the end of a long metal pipe.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A skilled craftsperson: A "glass-blower" is a person who shapes molten glass by blowing air through a tube, creating objects such as bottles, vases, or ornaments.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The glass-blower carefully shaped the glowing orange glass into a delicate vase. (A craftsperson using breath to form glass.)
    • She apprenticed with a master glass-blower to learn the ancient art. (A person trained in the technique of glassblowing.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to work as a glass-blower": to be employed in the profession of shaping glass by blowing.

    • After years of study, he began to work as a glass-blower in a Venetian studio. (He took on the role of a professional glass artisan.)

  • "the glass-blower's technique": the specific methods used in glassblowing, such as gathering, blowing, and shaping.

    • The glass-blower's technique involves rotating the pipe constantly to prevent the glass from sagging. (The procedural approach of the craft.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Glassblowing (noun): the art or process of shaping glass by blowing air into it.

    • Glassblowing requires intense heat and precise control. (The activity of making glass objects.)

  • Glassblower (noun, alternative spelling): same as "glass-blower."

    • A master glassblower can create intricate forms without molds. (A skilled artisan.)
Synonyms
  • Artisan: a skilled worker who makes things by hand.
  • Craftsman: a person who is skilled in a particular craft.
Related Idioms
  • "to have a glass-blower's lungs": an informal expression meaning to have strong, controlled breathing.
    • He could hold his breath for over a minute—he must have a glass-blower's lungs. (Exceptional lung capacity, like that needed for glassblowing.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • Blow into: to shape (glass) by forcing air into it.
    • The apprentice learned to blow into the pipe without inhaling. (To direct breath into the tube.)
Cultural Note
  • Historical significance: Glass-blowing was invented around the 1st century BCE in Syria and has since become a highly respected craft worldwide. A glass-blower often works in a "hot shop" with a furnace, anvil, and various tools.