batik

noun

ba·​tik bə-ˈtēk  ˈba-tik 

1

a

: a fabric printed by an Indonesian method of hand-printing textiles by coating with wax the parts not to be dyed

also : the method itself

b

: a design executed in batik

2

a

: a method of decorating an egg or other object by coating parts of the object's surface with wax to resist dye

… a Russian method of egg decorating known as batik.

—Susan Antigone

Ukrainian batik eggs

It's a 2,000-year-old art that involves painting symbolic designs on eggs in batik style.

—Leo Smith

b

: a design so executed

For a batik effect, hard-boil the eggs and while they are still warm criss-cross thick elastic bands around each one.

—Jane Phillimore et al.

Examples of batik in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The brand also incorporates specific Asian cultural elements in most of its designs, such as the use of batik, songket, or saree lace. —Ardian Wibisono, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

Prints included broken polka dot, paisley, batik and ombre polka dot. —Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 27 May 2026

Their various techniques include quilts, wax batiks, Japanese shibori, collage, botanicals, multimedia work, paintings and garments. —Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Apr. 2026

From the soaring lobby atrium to the 510 rooms, the new design leans heavily on Peranakan motifs such as batik textiles and floral wallpaper. —Chris Schalkx, Travel + Leisure, 7 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Javanese baṭik

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for batik

• antique
• bespeak
• boutique
• cacique
• comique
• critique
• grosbeak
• midweek
• mystique
• oblique
• physique
• pratique

Kids Definition

batik

noun

ba·​tik bə-ˈtēk  ˈbat-ik 

1

: an Indonesian method of hand-printing textiles by coating with wax the parts not to be dyed

2

: a design or fabric printed by batik