stained-glass
UK: steɪnd ɡlɑːs | US: steɪnd ɡlæs
adj. relating to or made of colored glass arranged to form decorative or pictorial designs, typically used in windows.
n. (as "stained glass") glass colored by adding metallic salts during manufacture, often used in artistic window designs.
The term "stained-glass" combines "stained" (from Old French esteindre, meaning "to color or mark," derived from Latin tingere, "to dye") and "glass" (from Old English glæs, referring to the transparent material). Historically, "stained" emphasized the application of pigments or dyes to glass, while "glass" denotes the medium. The phrase emerged in the 19th century to describe the art form, though the technique dates back to medieval church windows. The logic lies in the process of "staining" clear glass with vibrant colors to create intricate designs.
The cathedral’s stained-glass windows depicted biblical scenes in vivid hues.
She admired the craftsmanship of the antique stained-glass panel.
Modern architects sometimes incorporate stained-glass elements into contemporary designs.
The sunlight filtered through the stained-glass, casting colorful patterns on the floor.
Restoring historic stained-glass requires specialized skills and materials.