1
a
: a spirit varnish (such as shellac)
b
: any of various durable natural varnishes
especially
: a varnish obtained from an Asian sumac (Toxicodendron vernicifluum synonym Rhus verniciflua)
called also Japanese lacquer
2
: any of various clear or colored synthetic organic coatings that typically dry to form a film by evaporation of the solvent
especially
: a solution of a cellulose derivative (such as nitrocellulose)
lacquered; lacquering
ˈla-k(ə-)riŋ 
1
: to coat with or as if with lacquer
2
: to give a smooth finish or appearance to : make glossy
lacquered her hair
Examples of lacquer in a Sentence
Noun
Many coats of lacquer were applied to the table.
Recent Examples on the Web
Lacey Howard, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Nov. 2025
The 98-pound cabinet is relatively compact—about 19 x 16 x 22 inches (width x height x depth)—and is finished in eight coats of piano black lacquer.
—Robert Ross, Robb Report, 14 Nov. 2025
Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 31 Oct. 2025
And, beliefs weren’t lacquered on the wall while the adults in the Center did the opposite.
—Essence, 24 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lacquer
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Noun
In the same vein, the sleek lacquer of the table and chairs is offset by the soft matte paint finish and a textured rug.
—Lacey Howard, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Nov. 2025
The 98-pound cabinet is relatively compact—about 19 x 16 x 22 inches (width x height x depth)—and is finished in eight coats of piano black lacquer.
—Robert Ross, Robb Report, 14 Nov. 2025
Verb
The centerpiece is a custom Aegean blue kitchen, lacquered top to bottom with bronze accents and Calacatta marble countertops, connecting seamlessly to a family room with a hidden, James Bond–style TV that rises up out of a cabinet at the touch of a button.
—Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 31 Oct. 2025
And, beliefs weren’t lacquered on the wall while the adults in the Center did the opposite.
—Essence, 24 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lacquer
Cite this Entry
“Lacquer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lacquer. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.
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