Lack
/lak/masculine
Varnish in German is Lack. Wiktionary also lists Firnis.
Meaning: transparent paint (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Lack | /lak/ | masculine |
| Firnis | /ˈfɪʁnɪs/ | masculine |
The term refers to a transparent paint.
Which one should you use?
Lack is the standard, everyday term for varnish used on furniture or wood. In contrast, Firnis is a more specialized term, often used in the context of fine arts, such as the protective coating applied to oil paintings.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the action of applying varnish, use the verb lackieren for general purposes. If you are specifically referring to the act of applying a protective coating to a painting or artwork, use the verb firnissen.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /lak/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not confuse the German noun Lack with the English verb 'to lack' (to be without), but they are unrelated in meaning.
Did you know?
- The German expression den Lack weg haben describes someone who has lost their former charm or peak condition, as if their shiny coating has worn off.
- The word Lack comes from the Sanskrit word lākṣā, which refers to a resin secreted by an insect called the lac bug.
- The German word for nail polish is Nagellack, treating the cosmetic product as a form of industrial varnish.
Examples in context
- Im Restaurationsprozess verwenden wir Lack, um die Oberfläche des Möbelstücks zu schützen.In the restoration process, we use varnish to protect the surface of the furniture piece.
- Welche Art von Lack empfehlen Sie für den höchsten Glanz?Which type of varnish do you recommend for the highest sheen?
- Ich suche nach einem hochwertigen Holzschutzlack für meine handgefertigten Möbel.I'm looking for a high-quality varnish for my handmade furniture.
- Hast du ein paar Tipps zur Anwendung von Holzschutzlack?Do you have any tips for applying varnish on wood?
- Der Lack glänzt sehr schön.The varnish shines very beautifully.
- Ich brauche einen neuen Lack für den Tisch.I need a new varnish for the table.
- Der Lack auf dem Holz ist trocken.The varnish on the wood is dry.
Example conversation
Hannah and Lukas are in a workshop working on a wooden project.
- HannahHast du den Lack schon gekauft, Lukas?Have you bought the varnish yet, Lukas?
- LukasJa, der Lack liegt in der Garage.Yes, the varnish is in the garage.
- HannahGut, dann können wir heute beginnen.Good, then we can start today.
- LukasIch hol ihn sofort für dich.I will get it for you immediately.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “varnish” translations and entries Lack, Firnis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Firnis, Lack, CC BY-SA 4.0.
