batik

noun

ba·​tik bə-ˈtēk  ˈba-tik 

1

a

: a fabric printed by an Indonesian method of hand-printing textiles by coating with wax the parts not to be dyed

also : the method itself

b

: a design executed in batik

2

a

: a method of decorating an egg or other object by coating parts of the object's surface with wax to resist dye

… a Russian method of egg decorating known as batik.

—Susan Antigone

Ukrainian batik eggs

It's a 2,000-year-old art that involves painting symbolic designs on eggs in batik style.

—Leo Smith

b

: a design so executed

For a batik effect, hard-boil the eggs and while they are still warm criss-cross thick elastic bands around each one.

—Jane Phillimore et al.

Examples of batik in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many pieces incorporate batik fabric, made using traditional wax-resist dyeing techniques. —Nicole Grimes, Travel + Leisure, 23 Nov. 2024

On arrival, enjoy time at leisure or select from a variety of optional activities, including biking around the island, yoga, batik painting, a Muay Thai lesson, or a visit to a nearby lobster farm. —Bon Appétit, 16 Sep. 2024

The Lutong Kids Club offers a variety of activities for kids aged 4 to 12, including batik painting, kids’ yoga and nature excursions. —Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 4 Sep. 2024

For example, batik screens dating back to around 700 AD have been found in Japan, while cave frescoes in India show illustrations of garments that suggest batik craftsmanship. —Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Javanese baṭik

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

batik

noun

ba·​tik bə-ˈtēk  ˈbat-ik 

1

: an Indonesian method of hand-printing textiles by coating with wax the parts not to be dyed

2

: a design or fabric printed by batik