Blacking is a word commonly used to describe a substance applied to shoes to make them shiny. The pronunciation of this word is 'blækɪŋ'. The phonetic transcription reveals that the 'a' sound is short, and the following 'i' sound is pronounced as 'ɪ'. The final consonant cluster consists of 'ck' and 'ing', which represent a voiced velar stop followed by the present participle ending. When it comes to spelling, it is important to note that the correct form of the word is 'blacking,' not 'blackening.'
Blacking, as a noun, can refer to various meanings:
1. A substance used for polishing or covering surfaces, especially shoes, furniture, or metal objects, to make them shine. It is typically a thick, black liquid or paste containing pigments, such as carbon black or graphite, mixed with oils or waxes. When applied to a surface, it provides a glossy or matte black finish, enhancing its appearance or protecting it from wear and decay.
2. Offensive Archaic term used in the 19th century to denote the practice of darkening one's face, usually with burnt cork or shoe polish, to perform in minstrel shows. This derogatory form of entertainment involved mocking African-American stereotypes and perpetuating racial discrimination.
3. The act or process of making something black or dirty with dirt, soot, or stains. For example, a fireplace can produce blacking when the burning of fuels causes soot to accumulate on surfaces.
4. Slang term used to describe incapacitation or unconsciousness, especially due to the effects of excessive alcohol or drugs. It suggests the loss of consciousness and memory, often associated with excessive partying.
5. Informal term for the dark ink used in fountain pens or printing, usually black in color.
Overall, the definition of "blacking" includes substances, actions, and historical contexts related to making things black or dirty, enhancing their appearance, or negatively portraying race.
A substance used in polishing boots and shoes; that which makes black.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "blacking" originated from the verb "black". It is derived from the Old English word "blæc" or "blac", which meant "ink" or "dark color". Over time, the meaning of "black" expanded to refer to objects that were dark in color or covered with soot or dirt. The noun form "blacking" specifically emerged in the 16th century and was used to describe a substance, usually a black liquid or paste, used for polishing or shining objects, especially shoes.