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glaze
/ɡleɪz/
This word evokes a sense of surface transformation, shifting a matte or dull exterior into something reflective and smooth. In culinary and artistic contexts, it suggests a finishing touch that adds both protection and aesthetic appeal, creating a hard, glossy shell. When applied to human expression, the word shifts from a physical coating to a psychological state. It describes a mental detachment where the person is physically present but mentally absent, mirroring the frozen, unreactive nature of a glass surface.
Countable when referring to a specific type of coating (a lemon glaze). Uncountable when referring to the material in bulk (the pottery was covered in glaze).
Meanings
A vitreous substance fused from silica and fluxes, used as a coating for pottery or ceramics.
"The potter applied a clear glaze to the vase before firing it in the kiln."
A thin, liquid sugar coating applied to food, such as donuts or ham, to give it a shiny appearance.
"The pastry chef finished the cake with a lemon glaze."
To cover something with a vitreous coating or a sugary film.
"She decided to glaze the ham with honey and brown sugar."
To become glassy or expressionless, typically referring to the eyes due to boredom or fatigue.
"His eyes began to glaze as the professor continued the three-hour lecture."