▪ I. aquatint, aqua-tinta, n.
(ˈækwəˌtɪnt, ˌækwəˈtɪntə)
[a. F. aqua-tinte, and It. acqua tinta:—L. aqua tincta dyed water (tingĕre to dye).]
A method of etching on copper, by the use of a resinous solution and nitric acid, which produces effects resembling those of Indian-ink or water-colour drawing; also, the design so produced.
| 1782 W. Gilpin Observ. Wye (1800) Introd. 8 The process of working in aquatint. 1862 Thornbury Turner I. 88 To publish a fine series of aquatints. |
b. attrib. quasi-adj.
| 1782 W. Gilpin Observ. Wye (1792) Introd. 8 The aqua⁓tinta mode of multiplying drawings. 1879 Spon Workshop Rec. 162 Aqua-tinta engraving..is recognised by its similarity to Indian ink or sepia drawing. |
▪ II. ˈaquatint, v.
[f. prec.]
To etch in aquatint.
| 1819 Rees Cycl. II. s.v. Aquatint, This method of aqua⁓tinting. 1882 Athenæum 9 Sept. 343/1 C. Turner mezzo⁓tinted many ‘Libers,’ but he aquatinted none. |