Ink

Definition

A colored fluid used for writing, drawing, printing, or duplicating.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪŋk/
• Respelling: INK (with "INK" as in "link")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪŋk/
• Respelling: INK (with "INK" as in "link")

In both dialects, "ink" places the primary stress on the entire word, "INK." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "INK."

Etymology

The term "ink" originates from the Latin word "encaustum," which means "burnt in." This is derived from the Greek "enkauston," which refers to a purple-red ink used in ancient times. The term passed through Old French as "encre" before entering Middle English as "ink."

Derivatives

• Inking (verb, present participle)
• Inked (verb, past tense)
• Inker (noun)
• Inkiness (noun)
• Inky (adjective)

Synonyms

• Dye
• Pigment
• Tincture

Antonyms

None

Usage

Ink is widely used in various fields such as writing, drawing, printing, and tattooing. It serves as a medium for transferring images and text onto different surfaces.

Related Terms

• Pen
• Quill
• Cartridge
• Tattoo
• Calligraphy

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Ink (Noun, General): A colored fluid used for writing, drawing, or printing.
  • Example: "She used black ink to write her letter."

• Ink (Noun, Tattoo): The pigment used in tattooing to create permanent designs on the skin.
  • Example: "The tattoo artist applied the ink with a needle."

• Ink (Noun, Printing): The colored substance used in printing to transfer text and images onto paper.
  • Example: "The printer is out of ink and needs a new cartridge."

Verb

• Ink (Verb, General): To apply ink to a surface or object.
  • Example: "He inked the drawing with a fine-tipped pen."

• Ink (Verb, Printing): To sign a document formally, often used in the context of signing contracts.
  • Example: "The athletes inked their contracts with the team."

Note: "Ink" can refer both to the substance used in pens and printers, and the action of using that substance to mark or sign something.