arriccio

noun

ar·​ric·​cio

əˈrē(ˌ)chō

plural -s

: the rough first coat of plaster in fresco painting compare intonaco

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from arricciare to bristle up, curl, groove (a plastered wall), from a- (from Latin ad-) + riccio hedgehog, curl, from Latin ericius hedgehog

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now