paint
9 synonyms and 0 antonyms for paint, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A liquid or paste that is spread onto a surface and dries into a solid, coloured coating.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use paint
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Middle English peynten, borrowed via Old French from Latin pingere, "to paint," the same root that gives us "picture" and "pigment."
Full origin of paint →Frequently asked questions
What does “paint” mean?
The word “paint” means a liquid or paste that is spread onto a surface and dries into a solid, coloured coating. In plain terms, the coloured coating substance itself, or the act of applying it (literally or, figuratively, describing something in vivid terms).
How do you pronounce “paint”?
“Paint” is pronounced paynt (/peɪnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “paint” in a sentence?
Here is “paint” used in a sentence: “We need another coat of paint on the fence.”
What part of speech is “paint”?
Depending on how it is used, “paint” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “paint” come from?
The word “paint” comes from Latin. From Middle English peynten, borrowed via Old French from Latin pingere, "to paint," the same root that gives us "picture" and "pigment.".
Is “paint” a common word?
“Paint” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “paint” have?
“Paint” has 6 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a liquid or paste that is spread onto a surface and dries into a solid, coloured coating.
What are the main types of paint?
Paints are usually grouped by their base. Water-based paints, such as latex and acrylic, are low-odour and clean up with water, making them popular indoors. Oil-based paints are tougher and glossier but need solvents to clean up. There are also specialty paints like enamel, chalk, spray, and primer.
What is paint made of?
Most paint has four main parts: pigment for colour, a binder that holds it together and makes it stick, a solvent such as water or oil that keeps it liquid, and additives that adjust drying time, sheen, and durability. As the solvent evaporates, the coating hardens into a solid film.
What is the difference between paint and stain?
Paint forms a solid, opaque film that sits on top of a surface and hides what is underneath. Stain soaks into the material, especially wood, adding colour while letting the grain and texture show through. Paint offers more protection and colour choice, while stain highlights the natural character of the surface.
What is the difference between paint and primer?
Primer is a preparatory coat applied before paint. It seals the surface, improves adhesion, and blocks stains so the colour goes on evenly and lasts. Paint is the finishing coat that provides the final colour and sheen. Many jobs, especially on bare or patchy surfaces, need both for the best result.