emboss

[ em-baws, -bos ]

verb (used with object)

1. to raise or represent (surface designs) in relief.
2. to decorate (a surface) with raised ornament.
3. Metalworking. to raise a design on (a blank) with dies of similar pattern, one the negative of the other. Compare coin ( def 10 ).
4. to cause to bulge out; make protuberant.

emboss

/ ɪmˈbɒs /

verb

1. to mould or carve (a decoration or design) on (a surface) so that it is raised above the surface in low relief
2. to cause to bulge; make protrude

Derived Forms

• emˈbosser, noun
• emˈbossment, noun

Other Words From

• em·bossa·ble adjective
• em·bosser noun
• em·bossment noun
• unem·bossed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of emboss¹

1350–1400; Middle English embosen < Middle French embocer, equivalent to em- em- ¹ + boce boss ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of emboss¹

C14: from Old French embocer, from em- + boce boss ²

Example Sentences

Of course, top grain leather is the most expensive, and we have suede, die cut, embossed, patent, and a variety of other techniques used to change the look of a hide.

From Washington Blade

The words “Die Heilige Schrift der Israeliten” — the Holy Scriptures of the Israelites — were embossed on the front.

From Washington Post

When we see someone else live our dream first, we extend a gold-embossed invitation to that kind of disappointment, a FOMO we will never live down.

From Outside Online

In our earlier days did we not emboss our bosoms with the daffodils, and shake them almost unto shedding with our transport?

From Project Gutenberg

When he was preparing his magnificent vase for the Exhibition, he was advised to emboss it with the royal arms of England.

From Project Gutenberg

But there is a way by which almost anyone may emboss stationery at home with one's own design at no expense whatever.

From Project Gutenberg

Steel dies for flower-shapes have a cutting edge, so that they can stamp out and emboss in one action.

From Project Gutenberg

It is cover'd with Dutch emboss'd paper, almost totally gilt.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• adorn
• decorate
• etch