oil-paper

A craftsman carefully applies oil to a sheet of oil-paper.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Paper treated with oil: "oil-paper" refers to paper that has been treated or soaked in oil (such as linseed oil or tung oil) to make it waterproof, translucent, or more durable. It is commonly used for wrapping, packaging, or as a material for umbrellas and lanterns.

Usage Examples

• (Paper made waterproof by oil treatment.)
• (A durable, waterproof material for covering objects.)

Advanced Usage

• "oil-paper umbrella": a type of umbrella made by coating paper with tung oil, historically common in China, Japan, and other regions.

  • She carried a delicate oil-paper umbrella to protect herself from the rain. (An umbrella crafted from oil-treated paper.)

• "oil-paper packaging": the use of oil-paper for wrapping food or goods to preserve freshness or prevent moisture.

  • The bakery wrapped the bread in oil-paper to keep it from drying out. (A protective wrapping material.)

Variants and Related Words

• Oilcloth (n): a fabric (often cotton or linen) coated with oil or a similar waterproof substance, used for tablecloths or rainwear.

  • The picnic table was covered with a bright oilcloth. (A waterproof fabric, distinct from oil-paper.)

• Oilpaper (n): an alternative spelling for "oil-paper," referring to the same material.

  • The package was sealed with oilpaper. (Same as oil-paper.)

Synonyms

• Wax paper: paper coated with wax to make it waterproof (though not identical in composition, it shares similar uses).
• Parchment paper: paper treated with silicone for non-stick and moisture resistance (used in baking).

Related Idioms