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

The book, with its linen hardcover and white foil emboss, reveals the layers behind Lynch’s paintings, which depict “a controlled chaos of scenes picked from theatre, film, and pop media, challenge perceptions and invite a deeper engagement with the unseen,” says the gallery.

From Los Angeles Times

There is no crack of dormant glue as you first break the spine, nor is there the running of fingers over the raise of emboss.

From Los Angeles Times

There is no crack of dormant glue as you first break the spine, nor is there the running of fingers over the raise of emboss.

From Los Angeles Times

The coin, designed by east London artist and LGBTQ+ activist Dominique Holmes, uses state-of-the-art printing technology to emboss it with the colours of the Pride progress flag.

From Reuters

Initially a contract manufacturer of shoe parts, Tyca got into the denim game to fulfill a request from Levi’s, using the same machinery to emboss the Levi’s name into thousands of back pockets.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• adorn
• decorate
• etch