Mastic (Noun)
Meaning 1
An aromatic exudate from the mastic tree; used chiefly in varnishes.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The craftsman applied a small amount of mastic to the intricate wooden design to give it a rich, glossy finish.
- The painter added a dash of mastic to her medium to enhance the colors and depth of her latest art piece.
- In the small apothecary shop, a selection of exotic aromatics including myrrh and mastic filled the air with an enticing fragrance.
- After polishing the ancient instrument, the restorer carefully applied a layer of varnish made with the finest quality mastic to seal and protect the surface.
- A faint scent of mastic lingered on the fingertips of the furniture maker long after she had finished crafting the ornate chest.
Meaning 2
A pasty cement used as an adhesive or filler.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The carpenter applied a thick layer of mastic to the crack in the floor to seal it.
- To fix the broken vase, she mixed up a batch of mastic and applied it carefully to the fractured area.
- He used mastic to stick the new linoleum floor tiles in place, making sure they were securely attached.
- A specialized form of mastic was developed for use in high-temperature applications, such as bonding engine components.
- The stonemason filled the gaps between the stones with mastic to create a solid and durable foundation.
Meaning 3
An evergreen shrub of the Mediterranean region that is cultivated for its resin.
Classification
Nouns denoting plants.
Examples
- The resin of the mastic shrub has been used for centuries in traditional medicine.
- Mastic is still cultivated on the Greek island of Chios, where it is an important crop.
- The essential oil extracted from mastic has a distinctively pungent flavor and aroma.
- Chios mastic, also known as "tears of Chios," is highly prized for its high-quality resin.
- In some countries, mastic is used to flavor desserts and drinks, such as liqueurs and sweets.