Definition

1. Noun:

   • A method of dyeing fabric: "batik" refers to a traditional technique of applying wax to cloth to create patterns by resisting dye.
   • A fabric decorated using this method: "batik" also denotes the cloth itself that has been dyed using this wax-resist process.

2. Verb:

   • To dye using the wax-resist method: "to batik" means to decorate fabric by applying wax and then dyeing it.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • She wore a beautiful silk batik to the ceremony.
  • The museum has an exhibition on the history of Indonesian batik.

• Verb:

  • She learned how to batik fabric in her art class.
  • Traditional artisans batik these cloths by hand.

Advanced Usage

• As an uncountable noun (the technique): When referring to the art form or process in general.
  • Batik is an ancient art form requiring great skill.
• As a countable noun (a specific piece): When referring to individual items of cloth.
  • She collects batiks from different regions of Java.

Variants and Related Words

• Batiked (adj): Describes fabric that has been dyed using the batik method.
  • The batiked tablecloth was vibrant with color.

Synonyms

• Wax-resist dyeing: The technical term for the process.
• Dyed fabric: A general term for cloth that has been colored.

Different Meanings

The word "batik" is specific to the textile art form and does not have other common, unrelated meanings. Its usage is consistently tied to fabric dyeing.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically using the word "batik."

Noun

1. a dyed fabric; a removable wax is used where the dye is not wanted

Verb

1. dye with wax
   • Indonesian fabrics are often batiked