Definition of mat

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< mat

MAT >

mat ²    (mt) KEY  

NOUN:

1. A decorative border placed around a picture to serve as a frame or provide contrast between the picture and the frame.
2. also matte
   1. A dull, often rough finish, as of paint, glass, metal, or paper.
   2. A special tool for producing such a surface or finish.
3. Printing See matrix.

TRANSITIVE VERB:
mat·ted , mat·ting , mats

1. To put a mat around (a picture).
2. To produce a dull finish on.

ADJECTIVE:
also matte

Having a dull finish.

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ETYMOLOGY:
From French, dull, from Old French, defeated, withered, perhaps from Latin mattus, stupefied, senseless, possibly from *maditus, past participle of madre, to be wet

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