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.
Phrases and idioms:
enamel paint a paint that dries to give a smooth hard coat.
Derivatives:
enameller n. enamelwork n.
Etymology: ME f. AF enameler, enamailler (as EN-(1), OF esmail f. Gmc)