etch
UK: etʃ | US: etʃ
vt. to cut or carve a design or text into a hard surface, especially metal or glass, using acid or a sharp tool
vt. to impress or delineate something clearly in the mind or memory
The word "etch" originates from the Dutch etsen, which means "to etch" or "to corrode." This term was borrowed into English in the 17th century, specifically in the context of printmaking and metalwork. The Dutch etsen itself derives from the German ätzen, meaning "to corrode" or "to eat into," reflecting the chemical process of using acid to carve designs into metal. Over time, "etch" expanded metaphorically to describe vivid impressions in memory or imagination.
The artist used a needle to etch intricate patterns onto the copper plate.
Acid was applied to the metal surface to etch the company’s logo.
The traumatic event was deeply etched into her memory.
He learned how to etch glass to create personalized gifts.
The ancient runes were etched into the stone centuries ago.