Vernissage

Pronunciation

• IPA: /vɛːnɪˈsɑːʒ/

Origin

From French vernissage, derived from the earlier habit of the artists to varnish their paintings the day before the opening of an exhibition.

Full definition of vernissage

Noun

1. A private viewing of an art exhibition before it opens to the public.
• 1893: the artists' association will be forced to advance or delay its vernissage and opening day. — The Times, 2 May 1893, p.5 col. C

Synonyms

• preview
• private view

Coordinate terms

• opening