What does lacquer mean?
Lacquer is a liquid coating that is applied to wood, metal, plastic, or other materials and allowed to harden into a smooth, durable finish, often a glossy one. It is especially associated with furniture, musical instruments, and decorative objects, although it can also be used for industrial and automotive coatings. As a verb, “to lacquer” means to cover a surface with lacquer. The word can refer either to the coating material itself or, occasionally, to the process of applying it. Lacquer is related to “lac,” a resinous substance historically obtained from insects and used in South Asian and Southeast Asian traditions. Unlike some general-purpose varnishes, lacquer is valued for its smooth appearance, resilience, and often high-gloss finish. It is common in both British and American English, though the range of products called lacquer may vary by region and industry.
A liquid coating that dries to a hard, usually glossy finish on wood, metal, plastic, or other surfaces; also, less commonly, the coating material collectively.
"The surface was protected with a thin layer of lacquer."
To apply lacquer to a surface in order to seal, decorate, or give it a glossy finish.
"The craftsman lacquered the table before the final assembly."
Usually used as a mass noun. The plural refers to different kinds of lacquer or separate lacquer products.
"The shop stocks several lacquers for restoring wooden furniture."
Lacquer can turn an ordinary wooden object into something that looks sleek and polished—and the word itself preserves the history of a resin valued across Asia for centuries.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lacquer come from?
The English word comes through Portuguese and earlier European trading languages from a South Asian term for lac, the resinous secretion of lac insects. English “lacquer” developed in the late sixteenth century, initially referring to the substance used as a coating and seal. The modern industrial sense broadened as manufactured lacquer coatings became widely used on furniture and other manufactured goods. Its connection with “lac” also links it to a long history of resins and varnishes traded between South Asia and Europe.
Related word forms
How lacquer is actually used
In British English, “lacquer” commonly refers to a coating for wood and furniture, while in American English it is also widely used for finishes on metal, plastic, and other manufactured objects. The noun is usually used as a mass noun; “lacquers” is possible when referring to different kinds of lacquer or separate coating products.
Easily confused with lacquer
Lacquer is a general term for a durable coating, while shellac is a specific resin-based finish made from lac and is often used on wood.