# matt

/ˈmæt/ (US) · /mˈæt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/matt
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. not shiny

adjective · CEFR B2 · British English

describing a surface that is dull and does not reflect light.

For teachers: having a dull or lustreless surface that does not reflect light. Often used in the context of paint, photography, or paper.

- She chose a matt finish for the bedroom walls to avoid a bright glare.
- The photographer preferred printing on matt paper to ensure the deep blacks of the portrait were not obscured by surface reflections.

Usage: In American English, the spelling 'matte' is significantly more common for this sense.

### 2. film background

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a painted or digital background used in films to make it look like the actors are in a different place.

For teachers: a mask or background, traditionally painted on glass but now usually digital, used to combine two or more image elements into a single final image.

- The old sci-fi movie used a matt painting to show the alien city.
- Modern visual effects artists often use digital mattes to extend physical sets, creating vast landscapes that would be impossible to build.

Usage: Often spelled 'matte' in technical film documentation.

### 3. a person's name

noun · CEFR A1 · Informal

a short form of the male name Matthew.

For teachers: a common diminutive or hypocorism of the male given name Matthew.

- My friend Matthew usually goes by Matt at school.
- Matt was appointed as the lead developer for the project due to his extensive experience with legacy systems.

Teaching tip: While 'Matt' is the standard informal shortening, 'Mattie' is sometimes used as a more affectionate or childhood nickname.

### 4. to make dull

verb · CEFR C2 · Technical

to make a surface look dull or not shiny.

For teachers: to produce a dull, lustreless surface on a material, particularly metal or glass.

- The craftsman worked to matt the silver so it looked antique.
- The specification required the contractor to matt the stainless steel panels to reduce the building's impact on the surrounding environment.

## Examples

- I prefer a matt finish for my bedroom walls.
- The photographer chose a matt paper to reduce glare and give the portraits a more classic, artistic look.
- While glossy screens offer more vibrant colors, a matt display is often preferred in professional environments to minimize distracting reflections from overhead lighting.

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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.