VocabDictionary

vellum

/ˈvɛl.əm/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Fine parchment made from the skin of a calf, lamb, or kid, used for writing, painting, or binding books.

Example Sentences:
  • The medieval manuscript was meticulously handwritten on delicate vellum.
  • Only official government decrees were recorded on sheets of genuine vellum in ancient times.
2.noun

A heavy, cream-colored paper with a smooth, slightly mottled finish resembling this material.

Example Sentences:
  • The wedding invitations were printed on high-quality vellum to give them an elegant feel.
  • She used textured vellum for the cover of her handmade art journal.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “vellum”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Middle English: from Old French velin, from Latin vitulinus 'made from a calf', from vitulus 'calf'. Originally denoting fine parchment made from calfskin, later extended to describe similar materials or finishes.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'velvet' and 'calf' combined: vellum is a smooth, velvety writing material historically made from calfskin.

Frequently Asked Questions About “vellum

1. What is the meaning of “vellum” in English?

In English, vellum (noun) is defined as: “Fine parchment made from the skin of a calf, lamb, or kid, used for writing, painting, or binding books.”.

2. How do you use “vellum” in a sentence?

The medieval manuscript was meticulously handwritten on delicate vellum.

3. What are English synonyms of “vellum”?

Common synonyms include:parchment,calfskin,skin,vellum paper

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “vellum”?

Middle English: from Old French velin, from Latin vitulinus 'made from a calf', from vitulus 'calf'. Originally denoting fine parchment made from calfskin, later extended to describe similar materials or finishes.