# lacquer

/ˈɫækɝ/ (US) · /lˈækɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lacquer
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a hard, shiny liquid that you paint on wood or metal to make it look beautiful and protect it from damage.

For teachers: a clear, hard, glossy finish applied to surfaces to provide a protective layer and enhance appearance. Often used in the context of furniture, musical instruments, and decorative arts.

## Examples

- The old table has a beautiful, dark lacquer finish.
- The craftsman applied several thin coats of lacquer to the guitar to ensure it was both waterproof and scratch-resistant.
- Traditional lacquerware requires the application of multiple layers of natural resin, which is then polished to a mirror-like sheen that can last for centuries.

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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.