burin
UK[ˈbjʊərɪn]US[ˈbjʊrɪn]
n
a steel tool used for engraving on copper or wood.
n
a prehistoric flint tool with a chisel point.
Etymology
the word 'burin' entered english in the mid-17th century from the french word of the same spelling. the french term is believed to derive from the italian 'burino', possibly a diminutive form, though its ultimate origin is obscure and may be pre-latin. the tool itself, a sharp engraving instrument, has been used since prehistoric times, with the name following the object into modern artistic and archaeological terminology. its journey into english reflects the strong influence of french on the vocabulary of the arts and craftsmanship.
Analysis
this word is a loanword from french, where its form and meaning were borrowed directly. it is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable english morphemes.
Examples
the artist carefully selected a fine burin to begin the intricate line work on the metal plate.
archaeologists identified the sharp flakes as burins, used by paleolithic peoples for carving bone and antler.
his skill with the burin transformed the plain copper surface into a detailed landscape.