The Meaning of Yuuyaku (Glaze) and Its Etymology

釉薬・ゆうやく【yuuyaku】
glaze【gléɪz】

Glaze means Yuuyaku in Japanese. Also known as uwagusuri. A glassy liquid applied to unglazed pottery and porcelain. It serves various purposes such as decoration, enhancing durability, providing a glossy shine, and making the piece waterproof.

 

The English word, glaze, is derived from “gla” (as seen in glass, glad, and glacier), which implies smoothness and brilliance. The word “yuuyaku” carries a similar sense of shining and smoothness, reflecting the characteristics of the glaze used in ceramics.

参考
〈「工芸」英訳ガイドライン〉（ ザ・クリエイション・オブ・ジャパン）