How Do You Spell ZAFFRE?

Pronunciation: [zˈafə] (IPA)

The spelling of "zaffre" - a dark blue pigment used in ceramics and glass-making - can be explained through IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as /ˈzæf/ with a short "a" sound and a voiced "f". The second syllable is pronounced as /rə/ with a schwa sound and a silent "e". The double "f" and the double "f" followed by "r" may seem unusual, but they reflect the word's origin in Arabic, where the letter for "f" was written twice to denote emphasis.

ZAFFRE Meaning and Definition

1. Zaffre is a noun that refers to a deep blue pigment composed primarily of cobalt oxide. Derived from the Persian word "safir" meaning "sapphire," zaffre is widely used in the production of various blue-colored products. It is commonly found in powdered or granular form and has a strikingly vivid blue hue, making it an attractive choice for many applications.

   Zaffre has a long history of use in the realm of ceramics and glassmaking. Due to its ability to withstand high temperatures without losing its color, it is often used as a coloring agent for glassware and ceramics, imparting a brilliant blue tone to the final product. It is also utilized in the production of high-quality blue porcelain.

   Beyond its applications in art and design, zaffre has played a prominent role in the field of alchemy. Historically, it was used to create pigments for mystical purposes, as well as being a component in the production of pigments used for painting and dyes. Additionally, it has been employed in the creation of smalt, a pigment used in blue paints and coatings.

   In summary, zaffre is a rich blue pigment made primarily of cobalt oxide that has been utilized for centuries in the production of ceramics, glassware, and pigments. Its vibrant color and heat resistance make it a versatile and sought-after ingredient in various artistic and industrial applications.

2. The impure oxide of cobalt, which, melted with silica and potash, and reduced to powder, becomes the powder-blue of commerce.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ZAFFRE

• zoffre
• zaffe
• zaffer
• Zaffar
• zzffre
• zsffre
• zwffre
• zqffre
• zadfre
• zavfre
• zagfre
• zatfre
• zarfre
• zafdre
• zafcre
• zafvre
• zafgre
• zaftre
• zafrre
• zaffde

Etymology of ZAFFRE

The word "zaffre" comes from the Persian word "zāfaran", which means "yellow-gold". This Persian term was originally used to refer to the spice saffron, known for its yellowish color. Over time, the term "zaffre" was adopted in various European languages, including French and Spanish, to denote a blue pigment derived from cobalt. Today, "zaffre" refers specifically to a cobalt blue pigment used in ceramics and glass-making.

Plural form of ZAFFRE is ZAFFRES