onlay
/ˈɑnˌleɪ/
noun
- A dental restoration that fits over the chewing surface of a tooth, used to repair damage or decay.
- After the onlay was placed, the patient could chew comfortably again.
- Modern onlays are often made of ceramic or composite resin for a natural look.
- The dentist recommended an onlay instead of a full crown to preserve more of my natural tooth.
- A decorative layer or piece applied to the surface of an object, such as furniture or jewelry.
- The antique cabinet had a beautiful onlay of mother-of-pearl on its doors.
- The artisan created an intricate onlay of different woods to form a floral pattern.
- She admired the gold onlay on the handle of the ceremonial dagger.
verb
- To apply a decorative layer or piece onto a surface.
- The craftsman will onlay thin strips of ebony onto the tabletop.
- The artist onlaid pieces of colored glass to create a mosaic effect.
- They decided to onlay silver filigree onto the jewelry box for extra elegance.