mastic
/'mæstik/
Definition
- Noun:
- An aromatic resin: A natural, translucent resin obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), used historically in varnish, adhesives, and as a chewing gum or flavoring.
- A pasty adhesive or filler: A type of cement or sealant, often used in construction or crafts, that is applied in a soft, paste-like form and hardens.
- The mastic tree: An evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region, from which mastic resin is harvested.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Resin):
- The ancient Greeks used mastic as a breath freshener and chewing gum.
- The varnish recipe calls for pure mastic dissolved in turpentine.
- Noun (Adhesive/Filler):
- The craftsman applied mastic to seal the tiles to the floor.
- A waterproof mastic is needed for this bathroom repair.
- Noun (Tree):
- The mastic is a hardy plant that thrives in the dry climate of the Greek islands.
Advanced Usage
- "Mastic gum": Specifically refers to the resin when used for chewing or as a dietary supplement.
- Mastic gum is promoted for its potential digestive benefits.
- In historical/art contexts: Often mentioned in relation to the production of varnish for paintings or as an incense.
- Old Master painters sometimes used a varnish made with mastic and damar.
Variants and Related Words
- Masticate (verb): To chew. (Note: This is a distinct word related by etymology, not a variant of "mastic" itself).
- Mastic tree (noun phrase): The plant .
- Mastic resin (noun phrase): The specific product harvested from the tree.
Synonyms
- Resin: A broader category of sticky plant secretions.
- Gum resin: A type of natural gum that is a mixture of gum and resin.
- Sealant: A substance used to block the passage of fluids (for the adhesive/filler meaning).
- Cement (for adhesives): A material used for bonding.
Related Phrases (Common Collocations)
- Mastic varnish: A varnish made using mastic resin.
- Chios mastic: A specific, protected designation for mastic resin produced on the Greek island of Chios.
- Apply mastic: The common instruction for using the adhesive.
Noun
-
an evergreen shrub of the Mediterranean region that is cultivated for its resin
-
a pasty cement used as an adhesive or filler
-
an aromatic exudate from the mastic tree; used chiefly in varnishes
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