matt

 
Pronunciation: /mat/
(also matte or US mat)

adjective

  • (of a surface or colour) dull and flat; without a shine: prints are available on matt or glossy paper a matt black

noun

  • 1 [mass noun] a matt paint or finish: the varnishes are available in gloss, satin, and matt
  • 2a sheet of cardboard placed on the back of a picture, either as a mount or to form a border: try mounting prints against a deep matt or ground of the same background colour

verb (matts, matting, matted)

[with object]
  • give a matt appearance to (something): its bright fresh surface was soon matted with dust and insects

Origin:

early 17th century (as a verb): from French mat