Word
etched
US/ˈɛtʃt/
UK/ˈɛtʃt/
Definition
adj. describing something that is cut or marked into a hard surface, or a memory that is very clear and impossible to forget.
adj. cut or carved into a hard surface; metaphorically describes a memory or image that is deeply and permanently fixed in the mind. Often used as a participial adjective following a linking verb.
Examples
“The date was etched into the stone wall.”
“The survivor's face was etched with lines of worry after years of living in a conflict zone.”
“The traumatic events of that winter remained etched in his memory, surfacing whenever he encountered the sharp, metallic scent of cold mountain air.”
Examples
simple
“The date was etched into the stone wall.”
contextual
“The survivor's face was etched with lines of worry after years of living in a conflict zone.”
complex
“The traumatic events of that winter remained etched in his memory, surfacing whenever he encountered the sharp, metallic scent of cold mountain air.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'in' or 'into' when referring to memories, and 'with' when describing a surface covered in lines.
Real-World Examples
“October 7 is a date etched into the memory of Jews around the world.” - 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
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QR code
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