Search Dictionary
Definition of emboss

emboss

/ɪmˈbɔːs/
em · boss
Adjective:embossed
•
Past Simple:embossed
•
Past Participle:embossed
•
Present Participle:embossing
JUMP TO:

emboss Lexical Profile

emboss Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To carve, mold, or stamp a design onto a surface (such as paper, leather, or metal) so that it stands out in relief.

Example

"The printer used a brass die to emboss the university seal onto the heavy parchment."

2

To decorate or adorn an object with raised figures, patterns, or ornaments.

Example

"Skilled artisans were hired to emboss the ceremonial silver chalice with intricate floral motifs."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for emboss
Antonyms
View all antonyms for emboss

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'emboss' (to raise a design above a surface) with 'deboss' (to press or indent a design below a surface).

• Rhymes for emboss

• Nearby Words

embody
embolden
emboldener
emboss
embosser
embossing
embox

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French embosser ('to cause to swell or bulge'), formed from en- ('in, into') and bosse ('a rounded swelling, knob, or boss').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Emboss. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/emboss
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.