Glass

Definition

Glass is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a hard, brittle substance typically transparent or translucent, made by fusing sand with soda, lime, and sometimes other materials. It is used in windows, bottles, and various other items. It can also mean a drinking vessel. As a verb, it means to cover or enclose with glass, or to make something smooth and glossy.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡlæs/ or /ɡlɑːs/
• Respelling: GLASS

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡlɑːs/
• Respelling: GLAHSS

Etymology

The word "glass" originates from Old English "glaes," which refers to a transparent, glossy material. It is related to Proto-Germanic "*glasam" and Proto-Indo-European "*ghel-" meaning "to shine" or "bright." The term has been in use since early medieval times to describe both the material and objects made from it.

Derivatives

• Glassy (adjective)
• Glasses (noun)
• Glassware (noun)
• Glassblower (noun)
• Glassing (verb)

Synonyms

• Crystal
• Pane
• Vitreous material

Antonyms

• Opaque material
• None

Usage

The noun "glass" is commonly used in contexts such as "The window is made of tempered glass." As a verb, it appears in sentences like "The table was glassed to create a smooth surface."

Related Terms

• Transparency: The quality of being clear or see-through.
• Windowpane: A flat sheet of glass in a window.
• Mirror: A surface made of glass with a reflective coating.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A hard, brittle material typically transparent or translucent: Refers to the substance used for windows, containers, and decorative items.
  • Example: "The house has large glass windows."
• A drinking vessel made of glass: Refers to a container for holding beverages.
  • Example: "He poured water into a glass."
• An optical device or lens: Often used in plural to refer to spectacles or eyeglasses.
  • Example: "He wore glasses to read the small print."

Verb

• To cover or enclose with glass: Refers to applying a glass covering or creating a glossy finish.
  • Example: "The porch was glassed in to protect it from the wind."
• To make smooth and glossy: Describes a polishing or refining process.
  • Example: "The artist glassed the surface of the sculpture."