fresco
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈfrɛskoʊ/
KK: /ˈfrɛskoʊ/
noun
Definition
A type of painting done on wet plaster using water-based colors, which becomes part of the wall as it dries.
Example
The artist created a beautiful fresco on the ceiling of the church.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a real fresco painting in person?
No, I haven't, but I've read they're incredible.
Yeah, I saw one in Italy, and the colors were so vibrant!
That sounds amazing! I'd love to experience a fresco like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mural
painting
artwork
Antonyms
sketch
drawing
draft
transitive verb
Definition
To apply paint onto wet plaster so that the colors become part of the wall.
Example
The artist decided to fresco the entire ceiling of the chapel.
Tense Forms
Past: frescoed
Past Participle: frescoed
Conversation
I've been thinking about how to fresco my living room walls.
That sounds like a fun project! Have you done it before?
No, but I saw a tutorial online and it looked easy to fresco.
Root Explanation
**Fresco** → It originates from the Italian word *fresco*, meaning fresh. The term refers to a technique of mural painting on freshly laid wet plaster, allowing the colors to bond with the wall as it dries.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'fresh' to remember that 'fresco' refers to painting on fresh plaster, making the colors vibrant and lasting.
Visually Confused Words
alfresco
frasco