To carve or engrave a design or image into a hard surface using acid or a sharp tool, or to make something clear and permanent in memory.
From Dutch 'etsen,' from German 'ätzen' (to feed or corrode). Originally a technical term in printmaking referring to using acid to corrode metal plates.
Etching is an art form that Rembrandt and other Old Masters mastered—they'd draw with a needle on acid-resistant plates, then dip them in acid to create beautiful detailed prints!
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