Shellac Definition

zhəlak
shellacked, shellacking, shellac, shellacs
noun
shellacs
Refined lac, a resinous substance usually produced in thin, flaky layers or shells and used in making varnish, phonograph records, insulating materials, etc.
Webster's New World
A thin, usually clear kind of varnish containing this resin and alcohol.
Webster's New World
An old phonograph record containing this substance, typically played at 78 rpm.
American Heritage
Synonyms:
  • shellac varnish
verb
shellacs
To apply shellac to; cover or varnish with shellac.
Webster's New World
To strike repeatedly and severely; batter.
American Heritage
To beat.
Webster's New World
To defeat decisively.
Webster's New World

(informal, US) To inflict a heavy defeat; to drub; to batter. Used primarily in sports and political contexts.

Wiktionary

Other Word Forms of Shellac

Noun

Singular:
shellac
Plural:
shellacs

Origin of Shellac

  • shell +"Ž lac, calque translation of French laque (“lac") + en (“in") + écailles (“scales, shells")

    From Wiktionary

  • shel(l) lac (translation of French laque en écailles lac in thin plates)

    From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

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