The term "oil painting" in English refers to the art of creating images using pigments suspended in drying oils. This medium has been a cornerstone of Western art for centuries, renowned for its rich colors, depth, and versatility. The process involves layering oil-based paints on canvas or other surfaces, allowing for intricate details and textures.

Oil painting techniques vary widely, from impasto (thick application) to glazing (thin, transparent layers). Famous English terms in this context include "underpainting" (initial layer), "chiaroscuro" (light-dark contrast), and "alla prima" (wet-on-wet technique). Mastering these methods requires understanding terms like "linseed oil" (common binder) and "turpentine" (solvent).

The vocabulary extends to tools: "palette knife" (mixing tool), "easel" (standing frame), and "gesso" (primer). Contemporary artists often mix traditional terminology with modern phrases like "mixed media" or "abstract expressionism." Learning these English terms is essential for global artistic communication and studying classical or modern oil works.