ENGLISH
REFERENCE

laminate

n.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈɫæməˌneɪt// lam·i·nate

n. a thin layer of material, like plastic or wood, that is stuck to another surface to make it stronger or more attractive. You often see it on floors or in books.

n. a thin layer of material, such as plastic, wood, or metal, bonded to a surface to improve its durability, appearance, or functionality. Often used in the context of flooring, bookbinding, or industrial coatings.


SIMPLE

The kitchen floor is made of durable wood laminate.

CONTEXTUAL

The manufacturer applied a protective laminate to the surface of the table to prevent scratches and stains.

COMPLEX

The architect specified a high-performance laminate for the building's exterior cladding to ensure it could withstand extreme weather conditions without fading or peeling.

Origin

First attested in 1666; borrowed from New Latin laminātus, perfect passive participle of laminō (attested since the first quarter of the 16th century), from Latin lāmina (“thin sheet of metal/other material”), see -ate (etymology 1, 2 and 3).

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