ink

English

/ɪŋk/, /iŋk/

noun
Definitions
  • A pigment (or dye)-based fluid used for writing, printing etc.
  • (countable) A particular type, color or container of this fluid.
  • The black or dark-colored fluid ejected by squid, octopus etc, as a protective strategy.
  • (slang) Publicity.
  • (slang) Tattoo work.
  • (slang) Cheap red wine.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English ynke derived from Old French enque derived from Latin encaustum (purple ink used by Roman emperors to sign documents, the red ink used by Roman and Greek rulers to sign documents) derived from Ancient Greek ἔγκαυστον (burned-in).

Origin

Ancient Greek

ἔγκαυστον

Gloss

burned-in

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms