Avtrycka

Avtrycka is a Swedish verb meaning to create an impression or imprint on a surface by pressing with a stamp, die, or mold. The action can also refer to reproducing or transferring something in printed form. In practice, avtrycka is used in crafts and manufacturing for processes such as stamping a logo onto paper, embossing leather, relief printing, or pressing clay or plaster to produce an impression. In printing contexts it can denote transferring an image or text from a printing plate to a substrate, akin to the English “print.”

The term is used both literally and metaphorically. Literally, one can avtrycka a pattern in metal, wood, fabric, or other materials. Metaphorically, to avtrycka sig means to leave a mark or make a lasting impression, for example in history or memory. The noun avtryck corresponds to imprint, footprint, trace, or footprint in an environmental sense, depending on context.

Etymology traces avtrycka to the verb trycka (to press or print) with the prefix av-, which forms a word emphasizing the act of producing an imprint. Related Swedish terms include stämpla (to stamp), prägl a (to mint or emboss), and avtryck (an imprint or trace). While avtrycka is widely understood, its use varies by context; in some technical settings stämpla or prägl a may be more common for specific stamping or embossing processes.