Canvas Meaning and Definition
Canvas
Pronunciation
/ˈkænvəs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A piece of fabric, usually stretched taut over a frame, used as a support for creating artworks, designs, or writing.
Examples
- The artist chose a large canvas to paint her latest masterpiece.
- The writer used a canvas to brainstorm ideas for her novel.
Synonyms
- Sketchbook
- Painting
Antonyms
- Notebook
- Whiteboard
Additional Information
Canvases are available in a range of sizes and materials, from cotton and linen to synthetic fibers. They can be stretched and framed, or used as a portable surface for artists or writers on-the-go.
Canvas is also used in various creative disciplines, such as fashion, interior design, and architecture, where it serves as a medium for expression, communication, and storytelling.
Etymology
The word “canvas” originated from the Latin “cānna”, meaning reed or cane, referring to the weaving process used to create the fabric.
Usage Notes
In writing, a canvas can refer to a vast or blank space, often used to describe a character’s thoughts, emotions, or experiences.
Cultural References
The idea of a canvas as a creative medium can be seen in various artistic and cultural movements, such as Abstract Expressionism, Surrealism, and Pop Art.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Blank canvas” refers to a completely empty or untouched surface, often used to describe a new project or opportunity.
Related Words or Phrases
- Paper
- Fabric
- Surface
Collocations
- to paint on a canvas
- to write on a canvas
- to canvas a city
Frequency of Use
The word “canvas” is commonly used in creative and artistic contexts, with a moderate frequency of use in everyday language.
Common Misspellings
- Canavas
- Cannes