ceramic

UK: sɪˈræmɪk | US: səˈræmɪk

Definition

  1. n. A hard, brittle material made by firing clay or similar substances at high temperatures.

  2. adj. Relating to or made of ceramic.

Structure
ceram <pottery>ic <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "ceramic" traces back to the Greek keramikos ("of pottery"), derived from keramos ("potter’s clay" or "tiled roof"). The root keram- reflects the ancient craft of shaping and firing clay, while the suffix -ic (from Greek -ikos) forms adjectives. The term entered English via French céramique in the 19th century, retaining its focus on fired clay artifacts.

Examples

  1. The museum displayed ancient ceramic vases from Greece.

  2. She specializes in ceramic sculpture.

  3. Ceramic tiles are durable and easy to clean.

  4. The artist glazed the ceramic bowl with a vibrant blue.

  5. Modern dental implants often use ceramic materials.