adj
Uncommon
matte
mat
Matte (adj) means having a dull, non-shiny surface; not glossy. Example: “She preferred matte lipstick over the shiny gloss finish.”
adj
1
Having a dull, non-shiny surface; not glossy.
"She preferred matte lipstick over the shiny gloss finish."
"The car was sprayed in a matte black that soaked up the light."
noun
1
A border, often cardboard, placed around a picture to set it off inside a frame.
"The framer cut a cream-coloured matte to surround the photograph."
2
A background used behind actors or objects, painted or generated digitally, that is later combined with other footage.
"The spaceship scene was shot in front of a green matte and finished with computer effects."
verb
1
To give something a dull, non-reflective finish.
"The jeweller matted the ring's surface so it wouldn't catch the light."
How to use matte
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a flat, non-shiny surface or finish — the opposite of glossy.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "mat" (a floor covering) or the name "Matt" — they sound identical but mean different things.
Common pairings
matte finish
matte black
matte lipstick
matte photo paper
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Word forms
- Plural
- mattes
- Third person singular
- mattes
- Past tense
- matted
- Comparative
- more matte
- Superlative
- most matte
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She preferred _____ lipstick over the shiny gloss finish.
Etymology
From French mat, meaning "dull" or "lifeless" — the same word used in chess for a checkmated (dead) king.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for matte
See all rhymes for matte →Frequently asked questions
What does “matte” mean?
The word “matte” means having a dull, non-shiny surface; not glossy. In plain terms, describes a flat, non-shiny surface or finish — the opposite of glossy.
How do you pronounce “matte”?
“Matte” is pronounced mat (/mæt/ in IPA).
How do you use “matte” in a sentence?
Here is “matte” used in a sentence: “She preferred matte lipstick over the shiny gloss finish.”
What part of speech is “matte”?
Depending on how it is used, “matte” can be an adjective, a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “matte” come from?
The word “matte” comes from French. From French mat, meaning "dull" or "lifeless" — the same word used in chess for a checkmated (dead) king.
Is “matte” a common word?
“Matte” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “matte” have?
“Matte” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: having a dull, non-shiny surface; not glossy.
