n. & v.
n. 1 a glasslike opaque or semi-transparent coating on metallic or other hard surfaces for ornament or as a preservative lining. 2 a a smooth hard coating. b a cosmetic simulating this. 3 the hard glossy natural coating over the crown of a tooth. 4 painting done in enamel. 5 poet. a smooth bright surface colouring, verdure, etc.
v.tr. (enamelled, enamelling; US enameled, enameling) 1 inlay or encrust (a metal etc.) with enamel. 2 portray (figures etc.) with enamel. 3 archaic adorn with varied colours. enamel paint a paint that dries to give a smooth hard coat. enameller n. enamelwork n.
[ ME f. AF enameler, enamailler (as EN-(1), OF esmail f. Gmc) ]