ceramic

1 of 2

adjective

ce·​ram·​ic sə-ˈra-mik How to pronounce ceramic (audio)
especially British kə-
: of or relating to the manufacture of any product (such as earthenware, porcelain, or brick) made essentially from a nonmetallic mineral (such as clay) by firing at a high temperature
also : of or relating to such a product

ceramic

2 of 2

noun

1
ceramics sə-ˈra-miks How to pronounce ceramic (audio)
especially British kə-
plural in form but singular in construction : the art or process of making ceramic articles
2
: a product of ceramic manufacture

Examples of ceramic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Airstreams come with a sink, mini-fridge, microwave, cooking utensils, and ceramic dishware; the cabins add a stovetop (and some even a full-size fridge); and the tents don’t have a microwave or sink. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Aug. 2026 Thermal barrier coatings Thermal barrier coatings are thin ceramic layers placed over heat-resistant metal components. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
Noun
Handmade ceramics in neutral tones or minimalist melamine create a fresh, stylish tablescape. Sheila Kim, The Spruce, 30 Aug. 2026 Habitat Home decor, locally made artisan items, one-of-a-kind gifts, ceramics, art, and textiles are stylishly displayed at this shop founded by a retired Marine. Patricia Doherty, Travel + Leisure, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ceramic

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Greek keramikos, from keramos potter's clay, pottery

First Known Use

Adjective

1850, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1859, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ceramic was in 1850

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ceramic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ceramic. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

ceramic

1 of 2 adjective
: of or relating to the manufacture of a product (as earthenware, porcelain, or brick) made from a nonmetallic mineral by heating at high temperatures

ceramic

2 of 2 noun
1
plural : the art of making ceramic articles
2
: a product of ceramic manufacture
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