noun

batik

buh-TEEK

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Batik (noun) means a method of dyeing fabric in which wax is applied to the areas meant to resist the dye. Example: “The market stall sold scarves decorated in traditional batik.”

noun

A method of dyeing fabric in which wax is applied to the areas meant to resist the dye.

"The market stall sold scarves decorated in traditional batik."

"She learned batik as part of a textile design course."

"The exhibition traced the history of batik across South East Asia."

verb

To dye fabric using the wax-resist method.

"The artist batiked a length of cotton for the wall hanging."

"They spent the afternoon batiking simple patterns onto cushion covers."

"She batiks her own fabric before sewing it into clothing."

How to use batik

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA way of dyeing cloth where wax stops the dye reaching certain parts, making a pattern.

When to use it

It is a neutral term used in craft, textile and art contexts alike.

Memory tip

The same word covers the technique, the dyed cloth, and the act of dyeing it, so check the sentence to see which sense is meant.

Trace the full origin ↓

Common pairings

batik fabric batik print traditional batik batik technique

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “batik” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The market stall sold scarves decorated in traditional _____.

Etymology

Batik was borrowed into English from the Javanese word bathik, the language of the Indonesian island where the wax-resist technique originates.

Origin: Javanese

Frequently asked questions

What is batik?

It is a technique for dyeing fabric in which wax blocks the dye from reaching certain areas, creating a pattern.

Is batik a noun or a verb?

It can be both: the noun names the technique or the dyed fabric, and the verb means to dye cloth this way.

Where does the word batik come from?

It comes from the Javanese word bathik.

What is the meaning of batik?

"batik" (noun) means a method of dyeing fabric in which wax is applied to the areas meant to resist the dye.