n. 1. A method of engraving a copper or steel plate by scraping and burnishing areas to produce effects of light and shadow. 2. A print made from a plate engraved by mezzotint. [Alteration of Italian mezzatinta, halftone : mezza, feminine of mezzo, half (from Latin medius; see MEDIUM) + tinta, tint, from feminine past participle of tingere, to tint (from Latin, to dye).] |
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