lithography

noun

li·​thog·​ra·​phy li-ˈthä-grə-fē 

1

: the process of printing from a plane surface (such as a smooth stone or metal plate) on which the image to be printed is ink-receptive and the blank area ink-repellent

2

: the process of producing patterns on semiconductor crystals for use as integrated circuits

Examples of lithography in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

China’s next-generation lithography tool—which uses a form of lithography one generation shy of Dutch industry leader ASML’s most advanced technology—is set to be launched this year, demonstrating China’s diminishing dependence on foreign chip-making tools. —Sihao Huang, Foreign Affairs, 11 Oct. 2023

Also, since chips used in appliances don't have to push the limits of lithography, the manufacturing gear is a lot cheaper. —Kerry A. Dolan, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

The East Fishkill lithography group had developed a noncontact 10:1 reduction step-and-repeat image projector. —IEEE Spectrum, 27 Nov. 2024

The pieces incorporate various printmaking techniques such as lithography, engraving, silkscreen printing and photography. —Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

litho- + -graphy, after French lithographie or German Lithographie (now Lithografie)

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

lithography

noun

li·​thog·​ra·​phy lith-ˈäg-rə-fē 

: a method of printing from a flat surface (as a smooth stone or metal plate) that has been prepared in such a way that only the areas meant to print will take ink