from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Lacquer \Lac"quer\, n. [F. lacre a sort of sealing wax, Pg.
lacte, fr. laca lac. See {Lac} the resin.] [Written also
{lacker}.]
A varnish, consisting of a solution of shellac in alcohol,
often colored with gamboge, saffron, or the like; -- used for
varnishing metals, papier-mach['e], and wood. The name is
also given to varnishes made of other ingredients, esp. the
tough, solid varnish of the Japanese, with which ornamental
objects are made.
[1913 Webster]