paint
n. C / Un. a colored liquid that you put on surfaces like walls or paper. Once it dries, it leaves a thin, hard layer of color.
n. a liquid composition that, after application to a substrate in a thin layer, converts to a solid film. Often used for decorative or protective purposes.
The wet paint on the wall smells very strong.
The artist mixed several shades of blue paint to capture the exact color of the ocean.
Modern industrial paint contains specialized polymers that resist corrosion and UV damage, ensuring the exterior of the building remains vibrant for decades.
From Middle English peynten, from Old French peintier, paincter, itself from paint, the past participle of paindre, from Latin pingō (“to paint”) (perfect passive participle pictus). Displaced native Old English tēafor (“paint”), *tīefran (“to paint”); and Old English mētan (“to paint”) and mǣlan (“to paint, mark with colour”).
Uncountable when referring to the substance in general; countable when referring to specific types, colors, or brands of the product.
- 01
know someone from a can of paint
Synonym of know someone from Adam.
- 02
paint a rosy picture
To describe a situation or prospective set of events in an upbeat, optimistic manner.
- 03
paint oneself into a corner
To create a predicament or problem for oneself; to do something that leaves one with no good alternatives or solutions.