from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Matte \Matte\ (m[a^]t), n. [F. matte; cf. F. mat, masc., matte,
fem., faint, dull, dim; -- said of metals. See {Mate}
checkmate.]
1. (Metallurgy) A partly reduced copper sulphide, obtained by
alternately roasting and melting copper ore in separating
the metal from associated iron ores, and called {coarse
metal}, {fine metal}, etc., according to the grade of
fineness. On the exterior it is dark brown or black, but
on a fresh surface is yellow or bronzy in color.
[1913 Webster]
2. A dead or dull finish, as in gilding where the gold leaf
is not burnished, or in painting where the surface is
purposely deprived of gloss.
[1913 Webster]