# etch

/ˈɛtʃ/ (US) · /ˈɛtʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/etch
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

to cut a design or pattern into a hard surface using a strong chemical. It can also mean to make a mark or image that lasts a long time in your memory.

For teachers: to cut a design or pattern into a hard surface, typically by using a corrosive substance; figuratively, to impress an image or idea deeply into the mind or memory.

## Examples

- The artist used acid to etch the pattern into the copper plate.
- The sun etched a deep tan into his skin after the long summer holiday by the sea.
- The historian's account etched the events of the revolution into the national consciousness, ensuring that the sacrifices of the previous generation would never be forgotten.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.