inlay — a decorative piece of material set into the surface of something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a decorative piece of material set into the surface of something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɪnleɪ/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother's jewelry box has intricate ivory inlays that look like tiny elephants dancing.
- The guitar's abalone inlays sparkled under the stage lights during the concert.
- After getting a ceramic inlay, Tom joked that his tooth was now more expensive than his car.
inlay
NOUN[/ˈɪnleɪ/]
a decorative piece of material set into the surface of something
a master craftsman carefully places small pieces of mother-of-pearl into carved grooves on a wooden jewelry box. His steady hands position each delicate piece perfectly into the surface design. The decorative pearl pieces create a beautiful floral pattern that contrasts against the dark wood grain. As each piece settles into place, the box transforms into an elegant work of art. His apprentice watches nearby, holding more pearl pieces ready for the intricate work. decorative pieces of material being set into the surface of something.
The intricate inlay on display helps convey timeless beauty!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle English, composed of the preposition 'in' (meaning inside or within) and the verb 'lay' (meaning to place or put). Originally denoted the action of placing something within or embedding it, later developing to refer to decorative inlaid work in craftsmanship.
Breakdown
in- (inside, within) + lay (to place, to put). The compound verb form describes the physical action of setting material into a surface for decorative or structural effect.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother's jewelry box has intricate ivory inlays that look like tiny elephants dancing.”
“The guitar's abalone inlays sparkled under the stage lights during the concert.”
“After getting a ceramic inlay, Tom joked that his tooth was now more expensive than his car.”
“The antique table's brass inlays formed a beautiful geometric pattern.”
📚Related Words
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