Definition

A substance used to make something black, often in the form of a polish or paste.

Example

He applied the blacking to his shoes to make them shine.

Conversation

I just bought some new shoes, but they need a little blacking.

Oh, I have some polish that works really well for that.

Do you think it will make them look brand new again?

Definitely! A good blacking can really revive old shoes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Blackening is formed from "black" (from Old English "blæc", meaning dark or the color black) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). The word "blacking" refers to the process of making something black or darkening it.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'black' which means dark, and the '-ing' shows it's the action of making something dark. This helps you remember that 'blacking' is the act of darkening something.

Visually Confused Words