matte
UK[mæt]US[mæt]
adj
Having a dull, non-reflective surface.
n
A paint or finish that gives a dull, non-reflective surface.
n
A border around a picture, often colored or decorated, used to set it off from its frame or mount.
Etymology
The word 'matte' entered English in the mid-17th century from the French adjective 'mat', meaning 'dull' or 'dead'. The French term itself is believed to derive from the Old French 'mat', a chess term meaning 'checkmated' or 'defeated', which conveys a sense of being lifeless or void of luster. This semantic connection evolved from the idea of a defeated king being rendered powerless and dull, to describing surfaces that lack shine or vitality. The spelling 'matte' was later adopted, likely influenced by other French loanwords ending in '-tte', to distinguish it from the more common word 'mat'.
Analysis
The word 'matte' is a simplex loanword from French. It functions as a unified adjective and noun in English.
Examples
She preferred a matte lipstick to a glossy one for a more sophisticated look.
The photographer chose a dark grey matte to frame the black-and-white portrait.
After applying the primer, the wall had a perfect matte finish.