ceramic

1 of 2

adjective

ce·​ram·​ic sə-ˈra-mik How to pronounce ceramic (audio)
especially British kə-
: of or relating to the manufacture of any product (such as earthenware, porcelain, or brick) made essentially from a nonmetallic mineral (such as clay) by firing at a high temperature
also : of or relating to such a product

ceramic

2 of 2

noun

1
ceramics sə-ˈra-miks How to pronounce ceramic (audio)
especially British kə-
plural in form but singular in construction : the art or process of making ceramic articles
2
: a product of ceramic manufacture

Examples of ceramic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are both suitable, with porcelain offering a slight edge due to its better heat resistance. Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Mar. 2026 Beyond grit, the material and shape of the file also matter—glass, ceramic, and high-quality emery boards offer unique benefits, from gentle shaping to long-lasting durability. Lily Wohlner, Allure, 5 Mar. 2026
Noun
Artwork includes paintings, ceramics, glass, gourd art, fiber arts, photography and jewelry. Martina Schimitschek, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Mar. 2026 The likes of Interview editor-in-chief Mel Ottenberg and German photographer Wolfgang Tillmans have been spotted perusing the fair’s textiles, tableware, lighting, scents, ceramics, and furniture from independent designers, architects, heritage brands, family-run companies, and galleries. Katherine McGrath, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ceramic

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Greek keramikos, from keramos potter's clay, pottery

First Known Use

Adjective

1850, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ceramic was in 1850

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Cite this Entry

“Ceramic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramic. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

ceramic

1 of 2 adjective
ce·​ram·​ic sə-ˈram-ik How to pronounce ceramic (audio)
: of or relating to the manufacture of a product (as earthenware, porcelain, or brick) made from a nonmetallic mineral by heating at high temperatures

ceramic

2 of 2 noun
1
plural : the art of making ceramic articles
2
: a product of ceramic manufacture

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