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Ceramic

Definition

Ceramic refers to objects made from clay that are hardened through firing. It includes pottery, tiles, and other items that are typically decorated with glazes.

Analogy

Think of ceramics as the "baked goods" of the art world. Just like cookies or bread dough transform into solid treats after being baked in an oven, clay transforms into durable ceramic objects after being fired in a kiln.

Related terms

Glaze: A glass-like coating applied to ceramics before firing to add color, shine, and protection.

Kiln: A furnace used for firing ceramics at high temperatures to harden them.

Pottery: Objects made from clay that are shaped by hand or on a potter's wheel before being fired.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.