Word
Definitions
01a thin layer
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun
n. a thin layer of a substance that covers a surface.
n. a thin outer layer of a substance applied to a surface for protection, decoration, or function.
“The metal fence needs a fresh coating of paint to prevent it from rusting.”
“The technician applied a specialized non-stick coating to the industrial molds to ensure the plastic components could be removed without damage.”
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'of'.
02a reprimand
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun British English · Slang
n. a situation where someone shouts at you or tells you that you have done something very wrong.
n. a severe verbal reprimand or 'telling-off'.
“The manager gave him a real coating for arriving late three days in a row.”
“After the disastrous presentation, the junior consultant received a proper coating from the senior partner in front of the entire team.”
Usage
Commonly used with the verbs 'give' or 'get'.
Teaching tip
This is highly informal and specific to British English; learners should use 'reprimand' or 'scolding' in professional contexts.
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Researchers discovered a possible way cancer cells hide from the immune system: they build a thick, sugar-rich coating around themselves.” “There were 123 schools (31%) using chocolate in solid form, such as chocolate chips or chocolate coating, as an ingredient in dessert or bakes, despite it being banned.” Word family
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/coating
「カタカナ語」 data: JMdict (EDRDG), CC BY-SA 4.0
‘외래어’ data: 한국어기초사전 (국립국어원), CC BY-SA 2.0 KR