1. to cut lines into a metal plate, glass, or other hard surface using acid or a sharp tool
2. to impress or fix something deeply and permanently in memory or mind
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The artist will etch a design into the copper plate.
• Acid was used to etch the pattern on the glass.
• She learned to etch her initials into the metal surface.
• The tragic scene was etched in his memory forever.
• Her words were etched deeply in my mind.
• The experience etched itself into her consciousness.
• He etched his name into the tree bark with a knife.