SHELLACK Meaning and
Definition
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Shellack is a verb that refers to the act of coating or covering an object with a layer of hard, glossy substance called shellac. Shellac is a resinous substance secreted by the female lac bug, native to India and Thailand. This natural resin is collected, purified, and processed into a transparent or orange-brown colored substance, often in the form of flakes or a liquid solution.
When applied, shellac creates a durable, glossy finish that provides protection and enhances the appearance of the object. It is commonly used to finish and preserve wood, as well as to seal and polish different surfaces such as furniture, musical instruments, and artwork. The application of shellac is typically done using a brush or a pad made of cotton or felt.
In a more metaphorical sense, the term "shellack" can also be used figuratively to describe defeating or beating someone convincingly, often in a competition or argument. It implies a resounding victory or a thorough and decisive triumph over an opponent. This usage originates from the idea of completely coating or dominating an adversary, much like how shellac covers and envelops an object. The term may also be spelled as "shellac," "shellack," or "shellak," although "shellac" is the most accepted spelling.
Common Misspellings for SHELLACK
- shelac
- shellac
- shellak
- ahellack
- zhellack
- xhellack
- dhellack
- ehellack
- whellack
- sgellack
- sbellack
- snellack
- sjellack
- suellack
- syellack
- shwllack
- shsllack
- shdllack
- shrllack
- sh4llack
Etymology of SHELLACK
The word "shellac" is derived from the French word "shellac", which was borrowed from the Indian vernacular term "silek". In India, shellac refers to a lacquer-like substance that is derived from the excretion of the lac bug (scientifically known as Laccifer lacca). The lac bug secretes a resinous substance used to create a protective cocoon on trees. The resin, once harvested and processed, is transformed into a versatile material with various uses, including as a wood finish, varnish, or polish. The term "shellac" was later adopted in English to refer to this type of natural resinous material.
Similar spelling words for SHELLACK
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