[ˈʃɛlak], (Noun)

Definitions:
- a resinous substance (obtained from the lac insect) melted into thin flakes, used for making varnish


Phrases:

Origin:
mid 17th century: from shell + lac, translating French laque en écailles ‘lac in thin plates’

[ˈʃɛlak], (Verb)

Definitions:
- varnish (something) with shellac
(e.g: he shellacked the box, paying special attention to the top and sides)

- defeat or beat (someone) decisively
(e.g: they were shellacked in the 1982 election)


Phrases:

Origin:
mid 17th century: from shell + lac, translating French laque en écailles ‘lac in thin plates’