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Word

canvas

noun C1
/ˈkæn.vəs/

Meanings

noun

a strong, heavy cloth used for making items such as tents, sails, and bags

canvas: a strong, heavy cloth used for making items such as tents, sails, and bags
noun

a piece of this cloth prepared as a surface for painting, often stretched on a frame

canvas: a piece of this cloth prepared as a surface for painting, often stretched on a frame
noun

the surface or area on which an artist paints a picture

canvas: the surface or area on which an artist paints a picture

Definition

Canvas is a strong, heavy cloth often used for painting surfaces, bags, and sails.

Canvas is a durable fabric made from cotton, linen, or similar fibers. It is commonly used as a surface for painting, especially when stretched over a wooden frame. Canvas is also used to make tough items like tents, sails, backpacks, and work bags. In a broader sense, it can refer to the material or the prepared painting surface itself.

Examples

  • I bought a roll of canvas to sew a sturdy tote for weekend trips.
  • She primed the canvas carefully before adding the first layer of color.
  • They chose canvas seats for the patio because they handle rough weather better.
  • He stretched the canvas tightly so the paint wouldn’t crack as it dried.
  • You can see where the artist changed direction, leaving faint lines in the canvas.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse canvas (the fabric/painting surface) with canvass (to campaign for votes or ask people questions).

More at C1 level

More nouns