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noun

gouache

/ɡwɑːʃ/  ·  say it: GWAHSH

an opaque water-based paint

In Arts & Culture

In more detail

a type of paint made from pigment mixed with water and a binding agent, which produces a flat, opaque finish; also the art created using this paint

Examples

How to use gouache

Gouache is a specific medium used in visual arts, valued for its matte finish and ability to cover quickly. It is more opaque than traditional watercolor but similar in application, making it popular for illustrations, design work, and fine art. The term is used both as a noun for the paint itself and attributively (gouache painting) to describe work created with it.

Common phrases

Synonyms

opaque watercolor · poster paint · body color · tempera

Word family

gouache (noun/adjective) · gouacher (noun, less common)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse gouache with watercolor or acrylic, or mispronounce it (the French pronunciation gwash is standard in English).

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