Definition

A flat stone used in traditional Chinese art for grinding dry ink and mixing it with water to create ink for writing or painting.

Example

The artist carefully prepared his ink on the inkstone before starting his calligraphy.

Conversation

Have you ever used an inkstone for calligraphy?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they are really cool.

They are! It’s amazing how you can mix the ink on the inkstone for painting.

That sounds like a fun way to create art!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inkstone → The word is formed from "ink" (from Old English "inc", meaning a black liquid used for writing) and "stone" (from Old English "stan", meaning a hard substance). An inkstone is a stone used for grinding ink, combining the idea of a writing liquid and a solid base for its preparation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ink' as the black liquid used for writing and 'stone' as the hard surface used to prepare it. An inkstone is where you make your writing liquid.

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