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niello

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noun ni·el·lo \ nē-ˈe-(ˌ)lō \

Definition of niello

plural nielli play \nē-ˈe-(ˌ)lē\ or niellos
1 :any of several black enamel-like alloys usually of sulfur with silver, copper, and lead
2 :the art or process of decorating metal with incised designs filled with niello
3 :a piece of metal or an object decorated with niello

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Origin and Etymology of niello

Italian, from Medieval Latin nigellum, from neuter of Latin nigellus blackish, diminutive of niger black

2

niello

verb

Definition of niello

transitive verb
:to inlay or ornament with niello

First Known Use of niello

1866

Learn More about niello

  1. See words that rhyme with niello Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about niello

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