enamel
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enamel
A glass-like, meltable substance that is applied to and fired onto metal or ceramic objects as a protective or decorative coating.
Die alte Gusseisenpfanne war mit einer Schicht aus schwarzem Email überzogen.
The old cast-iron pan was coated with a layer of black enamel.
The German word 'das Email' (enamel) is a false friend of the English word 'email' (electronic mail). The German equivalent for electronic mail is 'die E-Mail'.
Die Badewanne hat eine robuste Oberfläche aus Email.
The bathtub has a robust enamel surface.
The word for the protective layer is neuter: 'das Email'. Using the correct article is crucial to avoid misunderstandings.
Dieser Schmuck ist mit blauem Email verziert.
This jewelry is decorated with blue enamel.
In a dental context, 'Email' is often used with verbs such as 'schützen' (to protect), 'stärken' (to strengthen), or 'angreifen' (to attack). These combinations are often found in advertising for dental care products.
Diese Zahnpasta soll das Email stärken.
This toothpaste is supposed to strengthen the enamel.
lacquer / varnish
'Email' and 'Lack' can both be a protective or decorative layer on a surface. 'Lack' is usually a liquid coating that is applied to cars, furniture, or fingernails and left to dry. 'Email', on the other hand, is a glass-like coating that is fired with heat, especially on metal or ceramics. The words can be confused because both can shine and protect. For normal painted or lacquered surfaces, 'Lack' usually fits. For a fired, glass-like coating, 'Email' is more precise.
Die alte Kanne hat außen eine blaue Email, die noch gut erhalten ist.
The old jug has blue enamel on the outside, which is still well preserved.
Nach dem Unfall war der Lack an der Autotür stark zerkratzt.
After the accident, the paint on the car door was badly scratched.