anaglypta

noun

an·​a·​glyp·​ta ˌa-nə-ˈglip-tə 

variants or Anaglypta

: embossed wallpaper : a type of wallpaper that has a permanent raised design

A textured paper called anaglypta was used to lend an 1890s aura to the hallway.

—Roger Showley, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Dec. 1983

—often used before another noun

Three coats of deep blue paint bring out the texture in the anaglypta wall covering.

—Barbara Hertenstein, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 29 Apr. 2000

These Victorian and Edwardian houses often conceal the evidence of earlier tastes in decoration—contoured Anaglypta wallpaper, dark varnishes, here and there the piece of stained glass that must have added to the general gloom.

—Alexander McCall Smith, Sunday Times (London), 27 Apr. 2008

Word History

Etymology

earlier a trademark, borrowed from Latin, "vessels carved in low relief," from neuter plural of anaglyptus "carved in low relief"

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now