## What does it mean?
A **glaze** is a shiny coating on food or pottery. It makes things look smooth and bright.
## Etymology (where it comes from)
The word **glaze** comes from the Old English *glæs*, meaning "glass."
It has the suffix *-aze*, which often means to make or become.
## Historical origin
The term likely originated in England around the 14th century. It was used for shiny surfaces in pottery and food.
## Earliest records
Early uses of **glaze** can be found in medieval texts about pottery and cooking.
## Variants and usage by country
- **Glasura** (Spanish)
- **Glazura** (Polish)
- **Glas** (Dutch)
- **Glaçage** (French)
## Related words
- **Glass** (English)
- **Glassy** (English)
- **Varnish** (English)
- **Enamel** (English)