drypoint

[ drahy-point ]

/ ˈdraɪˌpɔɪnt /

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noun

a technique of engraving, especially on copper, in which a sharp-pointed needle is used for producing furrows having a burr that is often retained in order to produce a print characterized by soft, velvety black lines.

a print made by this technique.

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Origin of drypoint

First recorded in 1825–35; dry + point

Words nearby drypoint

dryomorph, dryopithecine, Dryopithecus, dryout, dry plate, drypoint, dry puddling, dry riser, dry-roasted, dry rot, dry rot fungus

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use drypoint in a sentence

He then mantled the sketch with rich drypoint lines, to give a sensitive chiaroscuro to the finished work.
Rembrandt's Etching Technique: An Example|Peter Morse
In the first place, the etched lines must be distinguished from the drypoint lines applied at a later stage.
Rembrandt's Etching Technique: An Example|Peter Morse
The drypoint line, by its nature, is more abrupt and forceful, showing the quality of having been scratched rather than drawn.
Rembrandt's Etching Technique: An Example|Peter Morse
There are two basic drypoint lines, depending upon the position in which the drypoint needle is held.
Rembrandt's Etching Technique: An Example|Peter Morse

This enables a drypoint needle to move freely in any direction without encountering the resistance of a grain.
Rembrandt's Etching Technique: An Example|Peter Morse

British Dictionary definitions for drypoint

dry point

noun

a technique of intaglio engraving with a hard steel needle, without acid, on a copper plate

the sharp steel needle used in this process

an engraving or print produced by this method

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012