define the term paper mache

What Is Papier Mâché?

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Papier mâché or paper mache is a popular crafting technique that uses paper and a paste to create a variety of objects. The method is named after the French term for “chewed paper,” which makes sense given the steps needed for any paper mache project. 

Paper mache is the layering of moistened paper and other materials onto a blank surface like a balloon. The adhesive used to wet the paper acts as a binding agent. As the paper dries, the outer shell hardens, which can then be painted and decorated. 

This craft is centuries old and is prized for its affordability and practicality. Essentially, all you need is recycled paper and a simple paste to create durable items like piñatas, vases, and jewelry boxes. 

Find out more about what papier-mache is, its history, and how you can get started on a project. 

What Is Papier Mâché Used For?

It might seem like the only paper mache options are rudimentary objects like bowls and simple sculptures. However, this method is also used to make items as large and intricate as carnival floats. In the past, paper mache was combined with other materials to make things like canoes and even auxiliary fuel tanks. 

This age-old craft spans multiple generations and countries, assisting in the making of several objects. Although the name is French, this method didn’t make an appearance in France until the 17th century. Before then, the technique was used in China and elsewhere in the world as far back as 200 BC.

• In ancient China, this method was used to construct objects like snuff boxes and warrior helmets. 
• The ancient Egyptians used paper mache to make death masks using linen and plaster. 
• In 18th-century Europe, this technique was used as a less expensive option to ornamental plaster and carved wood on furniture. 
• In modern times, paper mache has been replaced with materials like plastic, so the technique is no longer commercially accessible for decorative objects. 

How Papier Mâché is Made

The principles behind paper mache are simple: cut some paper into manageable strips, moisten the strips with a pre-made adhesive, then smooth the paper on a surface. These steps work well when you’re making simple kids crafts. However, some additional techniques help elevate the craft beyond simple bowls and sculptures. 

Decide What Form to Use 

• Balloons — work well when creating bowls, sculptural faces, and masks. 
• Cardboard — this material is ideal for square objects like jewelry boxes and planters. You can also make an intricate frame using cardboard to make sculptures and pinatas. 
• Chicken Wire — create large scale projects like lamp bases or lanterns using flexible wire. 
• Eggs — can help create the base of small dolls and other objects. 
• Paper pulp — make some paper pulp if you want to freehand an object without a base or mold. To make pulp, you mix full sheets of paper with water until it has a pulp-like consistency. 

Choose an Adhesive

• Mix flour and hot water. 
• Dilute Elmer’s glue with water. 
• Use drywall compound and glue for heavy-duty projects.
• Purchase a pre-mixed adhesive. 

Make Something Using These Steps

• Layer the strips of paper on the form in a cross-hatched pattern.
• Use at least three layers of paper for durability. 
• Allow the piece to dry completely before sanding or painting. 

Traditionally, paper mache paste is made using flour and water. However, if you decide to use this method, be aware that the project could develop mold over time. To combat this, you could opt to use diluted craft glue or wood glue. You could also add oil of cloves or salt to the adhesive mixture as a mold deterrent. 

Papier Mâché Ideas for Beginners

The great thing about paper mache is that it is a craft that’s suitable for all age groups and skill levels. It’s fun to get your hands messy, and it can be relaxing to work with your hands. The craft is similar in feel to throwing pottery, but it is much easier to make paper mache at home. Here are some ideas to get the creative juices flowing.

• Start with a balloon base and make a simple hanging candle holder. 
• Use the bottom of a balloon and some paper pulp to make an abstract bowl. 
• Cover a cardboard letter form with paper mache to give it an unusual texture. 
• Blow up different sized balloons to create a set of nesting bowls. 
• Cover cereal boxes to create a fun office organizer. 

Working with paper mache is fun, but it can be messy too. Be sure to prepare your working area with drop cloths and wear an apron. Good luck!

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jerwoodvisualarts.org

Papier-mâché – Definition, Examples, History & More – Art Techniques and Materials Glossary

Table of Contents

What is Papier-mâché?

Papier-mâché is a versatile and inexpensive art form that involves the use of paper, adhesive, and water to create sculptures, masks, and other decorative objects. The term “papier-mâché” is French for “chewed paper,” which refers to the process of soaking paper in water and adhesive to create a moldable material. This technique has been used for centuries to create intricate and detailed works of art.

History of Papier-mâché

The art of papier-mâché dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was used to create masks and other decorative objects. It gained popularity in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, where it was used to create elaborate theatrical props and decorations. In the 19th century, papier-mâché became a popular craft for children, who would create masks and figurines using simple materials.

Materials Needed for Papier-mâché

To create papier-mâché, you will need a few basic materials: – Newspaper or other thin paper – Adhesive, such as white glue or flour and water paste – Water – Paint and brushes for decoration

Techniques for Creating Papier-mâché

There are several techniques for creating papier-mâché sculptures and objects. One common method is to create a base form out of wire or cardboard, and then layer strips of paper soaked in adhesive over the form. This creates a sturdy and moldable structure that can be shaped and painted once dry. Another technique involves creating a mold out of clay or other materials, and then layering papier-mâché over the mold to create a detailed sculpture.

Uses of Papier-mâché in Art

Papier-mâché is a versatile medium that can be used to create a wide range of art forms. It is commonly used to create masks, puppets, and sculptures, but can also be used to create decorative objects such as bowls, vases, and ornaments. Papier-mâché is often used in art therapy as a way to express emotions and explore creativity in a safe and therapeutic environment.

Tips and Tricks for Working with Papier-mâché

– Use thin paper, such as newspaper or tissue paper, for a smoother finish – Allow each layer of papier-mâché to dry completely before adding another layer – Use a hairdryer or fan to speed up the drying process – Experiment with different shapes and forms to create unique and interesting sculptures – Seal your finished papier-mâché with a coat of varnish or clear sealant to protect it from moisture and damage

In conclusion, papier-mâché is a versatile and accessible art form that can be enjoyed by artists of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re creating a simple mask or a detailed sculpture, papier-mâché offers endless possibilities for creativity and expression. With a few basic materials and some patience, you can create beautiful and unique works of art that will be sure to impress. So gather your supplies and get started on your next papier-mâché project today!

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paper-mache

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Definition of paper-mache, word history.

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What Is Paper Mache? Meaning & Paper Mache Projects

Modified: May 9, 2024 by Treasurie

Are you interested in learning what is paper mache and creating something exciting? This is an easy craft that can be made by adults and children alike. It creates a firm material that can be used to cover surfaces or can be molded to form three-dimensional sculptures. You can use it to create bowls, masks, dolls, puppets, or any type of sculpture you wish to make!

What is Paper Mache? Definition

Paper mache is made of pulped or torn paper strips mixed with adhesive and pressed together. The shapes are molded when moist, then become strong and hard when dry. Its name originates from the French ‘Papier Mache ‘, which is translated as ‘chewed up paper’. Learn how to make paper mache for beginners.

Table of Contents

What Does Paper Mache Mean & Other Names

As well as often going by its original French name, it is also referred to by any of these names: paper pulp, paper clay pulp, pulpwood, rag paper or rag pulp.

The name paper mache is generally used specifically for the craft where strips of paper are coated in adhesive and then layered over a mold or structure of some sort. Paper clay is a mixture of paper pulp with an adhesive, then used to mold or sculpt objects like a clay structure.

History Of Paper Mache

Paper mache originally came from China, where it was used to make protective helmets for warfare. From there, the technique spread to Japan and Persia. Interest then spread to the rest of the world.

Even though it has a French name, it did not emerge in France until the mid 17 th century. It developed in England as a technique for making furniture, reinforced with lacquer. It was even used as a building material.

Large-scale production in Europe lasted about a hundred years, but began to decline around 1870. Even though mass production has ceased, it remains a very popular craft all over the world.

What is Paper Mache Uses

This versatile craft has many uses. It can be used to create masks, both for children and in theater. It is also used to make puppets. Paper mache is often used for carnival floats, molded over wire mesh.

As a crafter, you can use it to make things such as seedling pots, bowls, pinatas, large 3-d letters and numbers, decorations such as lanterns, hearts or eggs, fake plants, vases, even chunky jewelry such as bracelets and large beads.

It can also make any form of sculpture you wish to create.

What is Paper Mache Supplies

• Basic paper - You can choose from almost any type of paper- newspaper, roller towels, crepe paper, toilet paper, tissue paper, printer paper, or craft paper.
• Adhesive - There are so many types of adhesive to choose from! Flour and water mix, wood glue, white or school glue, modge podge, wallpaper paste or PVA glue.
• Some Form of Base to Mold Around - For example, a balloon, wire mesh, or a silicon mold. Of course, if you are making a sculpture, this is unnecessary.
• Mixing Bowl - To mix the glue.
• Whisk - To ensure a smooth adhesive.
• Salt - To prevent mold and preserve the glue mixture.
• Airtight Container - To store any excess glue or paper pulp.

Making Paper Mache

The method you choose for how to make paper mache will depend on the final use of your object. You can make it with flour, which is cheap and easy for beginners or for kid’s crafts, or with glue, which is more expensive, but stronger.

Step 1 - Make The Glue

Read more about the best paper mache recipe for added strength.

Flour recipe

• 1 part flour, 2 parts water, Salt
• Mix flour and water until you have a smooth paste.  It should be a similar consistency to pancake batter.
• Add 2 tablespoons salt, mix using a whisk. Be sure to eliminate all lumps!
• Refrigerate in a sealed container until you are ready to use it.

Glue recipe

• 1 part white glue and 1 part water
• Mix until smooth.
• This will not  stay wet as long as the flour recipe, so it should be used as quickly as possible. The objects you make with this mix will be stronger once dry than those made with flour.

Step 2 - Make Strips

You can use any type of paper. Newspaper, brown kraft paper, construction paper, printer paper, paper towels, toilet paper or crepe paper.

Tear or cut your paper into strips around 1” (2.5cm) wide. This is simply an easy width to work with, they don’t have to be precise!

Step 3 - Glue The Strips

Once your glue is smoothly blended, dip the strips into the adhesive. They must be completely covered with glue, but not over-saturated. Slide your fingers along the paper strip to help excess glue drip off.

Step 4 - Finishing And Painting

• Place the glued strips around your mold of choice, covering the mold completely. Use multiple layers of paper, allowing it to dry between each layer. The number of layers will depend upon the strength needed in your finished object. It can be anything from around 3 layers up to around 15 layers.
• Smooth it all out carefully, and allow to dry for approximately 24 hours.
• If you want a smooth finish, gently sand it down. One it is completely dry and sanded, you can paint your object. You can use any paint that can be used on paper. Remove the dried creation carefully from its base mold.
• To finish it off and make it last longer, apply a coat of varnish or mod podge to seal it.

Paper Mache Projects

If you want to try this craft out, here are some simple ideas for projects to make with paper mache.

Paper Mache Volcano

Almost all of our children have needed to make a paper mache volcano as a science project at some point in their school career! You could also make a volcano as table décor for a party meal.

Paper Mache Balloons

You can easily make paper mache balloons as party décor. They last a lot longer than ordinary balloons! You can also use a balloon as a mold to make anything spherical with paper mache.

Paper Mache Masks

Historically paper mache masks , were among the first paper mache creations. Make elegant masks for a costume party or frightening Halloween masks. Masks can be made as theatrical props or simply to 'dress up'.

Paper Mache Globe

We return to school projects! Or you may want to make a paper mache globe together simply to teach your children a wonderful combination of art and geography activities.

Paper Mache Bowls

Paper mache bowls are a wonderful craft for beginners and can be made by covering a balloon.

Paper Mache Pumpkin

These paper mache pumpkins are super to make as fall décor items or to decorate your home for Halloween. They last a lot longer than fresh pumpkins too!

Paper Mache Pinata

Learn how to make a paper mache pinata with this easy tutorial. Great for home decor and kid's parties.

Trouble Shooting With Paper Mache

If you make a mistake with paper mache, it can be very unforgiving. Thin spots on your project, (which cause the object to cave in or collapse), insufficient adhesive, and painting before your creation is dry are all things to avoid. Before painting, check to see if there is any ‘give’ to the layers. If there is, it may mean that moisture is still trapped inside, so let it dry for another day or two.

If your creation breaks, and a part of the shape is damaged, fill in the space with some crumpled paper and then cover over with more strips of paper and glue.

What is Paper Mache FAQs

Can paper mache be painted.

Most certainly! To make your paper mache creation look realistic, you will need to paint it. You can use any paint that can be used to paint on paper, but acrylic paint is probably your best choice.

Can paper mache be made waterproof?

If you want your paper mache to last in an outdoor setting, you will need to take extra steps to waterproof it. You can use a waterproof glue when constructing the item, to hold the layers of paper together. You can choose a waterproof acrylic paint when painting your structure, or you can use a sealant such as varnish over your paint layer to protect it.

Can paper mache go outside?

Just by itself, or with water based glue and paints, no. But if you make it waterproof (as explained above), it will survive outdoors. If you really want it to survive outside on a long term basis, you will need to re-apply the sealant every year.

How strong is paper mache?

It will be as strong as you care to make it! If you want a really sturdy structure, it can be made extra strong by using the following methods:

• Use a glue paste instead of flour to make the paper mache.
• Use many layers of paper to construct your item. Up to 15 layers, instead of the usual 3-4 layers.
• Paint or spray a layer of starch in between each paper layer.
• A layer of varnish over the top will also strengthen your structure.

What is the difference between paper mache and papier mache?

They are the same thing. This craft has a French name, which then evolved into the English name for ease of writing, pronunciation and spelling for English speakers.

Is paper mache just water and flour?

The glue of paper mache can be made from water and flour, but of course, you need to have the strips of paper as well!

What is the benefit of paper mache in art?

As an art medium, paper mache is inexpensive, non toxic and non hazardous. It is environmentally friendly and can be created from recycled materials and kitchen ingredients. It is also beneficial to your well being, in that as a craft it can help you relax, improve your creativity and mental agility. As a craft for children, it does all of the above as well as improving motor and sensory skills.

Is glue or flour better for making paper mache?

Generally speaking, glue is the better adhesive, as it creates a stronger, more permanent bond than flour does. It also dries clear and makes a better base for painting. Glue is also less likely to rot or grow mold over time. However, if you are wanting a quick, easy and economical craft, especially for children, flour is convenient and simple to use.

Who invented paper mache?

Paper was invented around the second century AD in China. The Chinese began using paper mache as a good way to re-use paper, which was expensive and difficult to obtain. It was introduced to Morocco and Samarkand as trade spread, and by the tenth century, it was known throughout most of Europe. The French were the first to recognize the potential of paper mache and to use it on a large scale.

Why is it called paper mache?

Paper mache literally translates to "chewed paper," "mashed paper," or "pulped paper." It derives from the French papier mache. It is thought to have received this name from French workers in London who literally chewed on paper to make pulp, but no one knows for sure!

What was paper mache used for?

It started off as a good way to make helmets. Once the French discovered it, it was ideal for making cups and snuff boxes, as well as imitating stucco and plaster work. By the late eighteenth century, it was being used to make furniture with lacquer reinforcement. It has even been used to construct boats. It was used to construct a church in Norway that stood for 37 years!

What is Paper Mache - In Conclusion

As you can see from this summary, paper mache is an extremely versatile craft, which can be used by everyone from young children all the way up to sculptural artists. It is a wonderful craft to pursue, from beginner to advanced fine artist.

You can start making it from basic kitchen ingredients, and if you enjoy it and wish to pursue it as an art form, or to make items to sell, you can move on to the more professional recipes for making paper mache . This article has only touched on the basics of this craft and what is paper mache . I hope you have fun exploring the many variations of paper mache which are available.

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Wonder of the Day #176

What Is Papier-Mâché?

ARTS & CULTURE — Fine Art

Have You Ever Wondered...

• What is papier-mâché?
• How do you make papier-mâché paste?
• What types of things can you make out of papier-mâché?
• papier-mâché ,
• sculpture ,
• Papier-Mâché ,

Today’s Wonder of the Day was inspired by Emory. Emory Wonders , “ What Is Papier Mache? ” Thanks for WONDERing with us, Emory!

At one time or another, most of us have experienced the joy of creating our own artistic papier-mâché masterpiece . Papier-mâché — sometimes spelled paper-mâché — is a French phrase that literally means “chewed paper."

A finished papier-mâché project is made up of pieces of paper or pulp that are often reinforced with cloth or other materials and bound together with an adhesive paste . Papier-mâché paste can be made of watered-down glue, starch or wallpaper paste .

For example, regular white glue can be diluted with water until it forms a paste the consistency of heavy cream. You can also use a mixture of water and flour (or another starch ) if you prefer.

Once you have your papier-mâché paste , you just need some paper and an idea to get started. Cut your paper into thin strips (newspaper is often used because it is cheap and works well) and soak it in your paste .

When your strips of paper are saturated (that means soaked through), place them onto whatever surface you decide to use to create the structure of your masterpiece . Common items used to create the structure for a papier-mâché project include balloons, light bulbs and wire mesh in different shapes.

Allow your strips of paper to dry slowly. Once they're dry, you can cut, sand and paint your work-in-progress until it resembles the masterpiece you had in mind from the beginning.

For example, a papier-mâché head can be made by wrapping saturated strips of newspaper around a balloon. When the strips dry, they will keep the round shape of the balloon. You can then cut, sand and paint the form to make it look like a head!

Papier-mâché has been around for centuries. The ancient Egyptians were known to have made coffins and death masks out of a primitive form of papier-mâché: layers of papyrus or linen covered with plaster.

Today, papier-mâché remains popular for arts and crafts, as well as in the production of certain items, such as the piñata and carnival floats you see in parades.

You might be surprised to learn, though, that papier-mâché has also been used to make some very interesting and practical things. During the 19 th century in America, papier-mâché was used to make paper canoes!

In addition to large paper layers, cloth and wooden strips were added at key points to provide reinforcement. The final product was waterproofed and proved to be a lightweight alternative to heavier wooden canoes.

Even more interesting is the fact that papier-mâché auxiliary fuel tanks were developed during World War II using paper infused with plastic. These lightweight fuel tanks allowed short-range aircraft to extend their range, so that they could accompany long-range aircraft on longer missions.

Wonder What's Next?

Got the munchies? Return to Wonderopolis in the morning to learn all about the best way to satisfy your hunger pains!

Enough reading about papier-mâché already! It's time to get a little messy with some hands-on learning. After all, March is National Craft Month!

Whip up a batch of papier-mâché paste , and then check out the ideas below to make a variety of fun projects:

• Apple pencil holder
• Mexican bird rattle
• Lion book holder

Did you get it?

Wonder contributors.

We’d like to thank:

Melia , Reece , kaci and James for contributing questions about today’s Wonder topic!

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Wonder Words

• papier-mâché
• masterpiece
• consistency

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papier-mâché

• 1.1 Alternative forms
• 1.2 Etymology
• 1.3 Pronunciation
• 1.4.1 Hyponyms
• 1.4.2 Translations
• 1.4.3 See also

English [ edit ]

Alternative forms [ edit ].

• paper mache ( informal )
• paper mâché ( informal )
• paper maché ( informal )
• paper machee ( informal )
• papier mache
• papier-mache
• papier-maché

Etymology [ edit ]

Borrowed from French papier mâché ( literally “ chewed-up paper ” ) . See French papier and mâcher , related to the English words paper and masticate , respectively.

Pronunciation [ edit ]

• ( UK ) IPA ( key ) : /ˌpapɪ.eɪ ˈmaʃeɪ/
• ( US ) IPA ( key ) : /ˌpeɪpɚ məˈʃeɪ/
• Rhymes: -æʃeɪ , -eɪ

Noun [ edit ]

papier - mâché ( uncountable )

• 2002 , Zadie Smith , The Autograph Man , Penguin Books (2003), page 236 : She sat completely alone at the very back of the sea-themed restaurant, amid papier-mâché starfish and plastic shrimp.

Hyponyms [ edit ]

• carton-pierre

Translations [ edit ]

See also [ edit ], verb [ edit ].

papier - mâché ( third-person singular simple present papier-mâchés , present participle papier-mâchéing , simple past and past participle papier-mâchéd or papier-mâchéed )

• 1954 , Emmett Kelly , F [ rancis ] Beverly Kelley, Clown , page 116 : I have had it rebuilt, papier-mâchéd inside and otherwise repaired through the years.
• 1959 , SchoolArts , page 21 : When the bodies of the fish were finished, fins were cut from cardboard to the desired shapes, pinned with straight pins to the fish, and papier-mâchéd in place.
• 1990 , Sarah Ellis , Next-Door Neighbors , New York, N.Y.: Margaret K. McElderry Books, →ISBN , page 78 : In a giddy moment they had also papier-mâchéd the legs of the card table.
• 2016 , Isy Suttie , The Actual One: How I Tried, and Failed, to Remain Twenty-Something for Ever , Weidenfeld & Nicolson , →ISBN : I instead constructed ‘shelves’ inside Roy’s stomach, made from mesh, which I then also papier mâchéd .
• 2019 , Annabeth Bondor-Stone, Connor White, Jaclyn Hyde , HarperCollins , →ISBN : I papier-mâchéed the entire volcano, constructed the tiny town out of toothpicks, and doublechecked the calculations to make sure it’s all to scale.
• 2020 , Nancy Snyder, Lions for Ajax , Shepherd Press, →ISBN : Then he taped another cardboard tube on and papier-mâchéd it.

• English terms derived from a Pre-Greek substrate
• English terms borrowed from French
• English terms derived from French
• English terms with IPA pronunciation
• English terms with audio links
• Rhymes:English/æʃeɪ
• Rhymes:English/æʃeɪ/4 syllables
• Rhymes:English/eɪ
• Rhymes:English/eɪ/4 syllables
• English lemmas
• English nouns
• English uncountable nouns
• English multiword terms
• English terms spelled with É
• English terms spelled with Â
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The History of Papier Mâché

When you think of papier mâché, the first thing that springs to mind is probably covering balloons in newspaper and wallpaper paste. Actually, papier mâché was an important method of creating mass produced, inexpensive objects, both useful and decorative. It was particularly popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods, between around 1720 and 1900, although papier mâché objects were being made in some places in the East, such as China and Tibet, since ancient times.

‘Papier mâché’ is a term used to describe lots of objects made in slightly different ways, but all using mashed up paper and some sort of paste. Sometimes, the paper would be moulded around a solid form, for example a wooden board. Other times, the paper would be pressed into a cast to mould it into the desired shape. In the late 1700s, a man called Henry Clay found a new way to make papier mâché by pasting 10 sheets of rag paper on both sides with a mixture of cooked glue and flour, and then squeezing them together in a metal press. After pressing, the sheets were drenched in linseed oil, which made them waterproof, and then dried at 1000°f (just over 500°c). 

These panels could be used in a similar way to wood, and were much stronger than traditional papier mâché made out of pulped paper. Jennens and Bettridge, a company who bought Clay’s old shop in 1816, improved the strength of these panels by using 120 sheets of paper at a time. These panels took days to dry. 

In England in the early 1700s papier mâché was mainly used to make decorative ornaments, such as small boxes, wall brackets, decorative ceilings, card and tea trays and inkstands. As time passed, methods of making papier mâché objects shifted from time-consuming hand pressing to more industrial and machine driven methods, using steam to soften pre-made panels and machines to mould them into strong and even shapes. This meant that papier mâché could even be used to make furniture. It became a very popular method of making ‘ japanned ’ furniture. 

‘ Japanning ’ is the name for the practice of making objects look like they are examples of Japanese lacquer work. This was very popular in the Victorian period, but Japanese lacquer was made from native trees, and often cracked due to the British climate. Instead, furniture makers found that papier mâché could be mixed with tar or pitch to create a smooth black surface that looked very similar to polished black lacquer, but didn’t dry out or crack. Objects were then decorated with beautiful shells, mother of pearl and gold, which were often stuck on to the sticky surface after the item had been varnished.

In America in 1874, a law was passed which allowed papier mâché companies to mash up old banknotes which had been replaced by new currency. This mixture was used to make small statues of famous Americans and replicas of important American monuments.

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Meaning of papier mâché in English

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• arts and crafts
• artsy-craftsy
• handcrafted
• screen printing
• tjanting tool

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papier-mâché | Intermediate English

Translations of papier mâché.

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NYT Connections hint and answers (Friday, May 17)

Need a hint for today's Connections? Read our guide for help with Connections #341

This guide is for a previous day! Looking for today's solution? Check out the Connections hint and answer for Friday 17th May !

Want a hint for Connections today? Piggybacking off the monumental success of daily puzzle game Wordle , the New York Times has another fantastically popular word game out now. It's called Connections , and if you haven't played it before, now's the time to start.

In this guide, we'll give you a handy hint selection for today's Connections puzzle on Friday, May 17th, before revealing the group themes and the Connections answers themselves. We'll also explain how to play Connections if this is your first time coming over from Wordle!

Connections words on Friday, May 17

For reference, here are the 16 Connections words for today:

Connections hint for May 17

Here's a hint for each of the word groups in today's Connections puzzle, plus a couple more clues to help you find the answer:

• Yellow (Easiest): Use these words to describe a despicable person.
• Green (Easy): When you want to chat with someone.
• Blue (Medium): Found in paintings showing mundane objects grouped together.
• Purple (Hardest): Related to cheap booze.
• Extra hint 1: "Low" here does not refer to the opposite of high.
• Extra hint 2: "Skull" and "tablecloth" belong in the same group.

Connections groups for May 17

If you need an even bigger clue to figure out today's Connections puzzle, below we'll reveal the four correct Connections groups - the themes which link together each set of four words in the Connections grid.

Here are the Connections groups for today:

• Reach Out To
• Classic Still Life Components

Now that you know the themes for the various different Connections in today's puzzle, see if you can solve it! If not, check just below for the full answer.

Spoiler warning! Today's Connections answer lies ahead!

What is the answer to Connections today (Friday May 17)?

• Corrupt: Base, Dirty, Low, Vile
• Reach Out To: Contact, Message, Ping, Text
• Classic Still Life Components: Fruit, Pitcher, Skull, Tablecloth
• Beer ___: Batter, Can, Garden, Pong

Congratulations if you got today's Connections answer right, with or without the help of our handy hints above! And if you didn't succeed today, don't worry - a new Connections puzzle is released every day at midnight, so you can try again tomorrow, just like with Wordle!

What is Connections?

Connections is a word puzzle game published every day by the NYT, the hosts of the endlessly popular Wordle puzzle. Crafted each day by crossword puzzle-maker Wyna Liu, Connections presents you with a selection of 16 seemingly disparate words, and you have to group them together in four sets of four, where each group of four words has a common theme.

For instance, the words "Hook", "Nana", "Peter", and "Wendy" are all Peter Pan characters. Or to take another example, "Action", "Ballpark", "Go", and "Stick" are all words which commonly come just before the word "Figure".

Your job is to figure out what these themes are that connect the various words together - but be wary, because a lot of the time there are red herring connections placed in there deliberately to throw you off! To win the game, you have to find all four Connections without making 4 mistakes. On your fourth mistake, the game is over and the answer is revealed automatically.

Each of the four groups in each day's Connections puzzle is also assigned a different colour, which represents how easy or difficult the Connection is to find. These colours are: Yellow (Easiest), Green (Easy), Blue (Medium), and Purple (Hardest).

That wraps up today's guide on how to solve the NYT Connections word puzzle. If you're looking for help with Wordle, we've also got you covered with our list of past Wordle answers , as well as the Wordle hint and answer for Friday 17th May . You can also check out our list of the best starting words for Wordle , or use our Wordle Solver tool to help you find the answer with ease!

Read this next

• Today's NYT Connections hint and answers (Sat, May 18)
• NYT Connections hint and answers (Thu, May 16)
• NYT Connections hint and answers (Wed, May 15)

Past Wordle answers

Wordle hint and answer today #1064 (May 18 2024)

Elden Ring: How to get to Liurnia early

Tiny Tina's Wonderlands SHiFT codes

Wordle hint and answer #1063 (May 17 2024)

Elden Ring: How to get to the Haligtree

All free games on the Epic Games Store: What's free right now?

This week's GTA Online Podium Car

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Definition of papier mâché noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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AI + Machine Learning , Announcements , Azure AI Content Safety , Azure AI Studio , Azure OpenAI Service , Partners

Introducing GPT-4o: OpenAI’s new flagship multimodal model now in preview on Azure

By Eric Boyd Corporate Vice President, Azure AI Platform, Microsoft

Posted on May 13, 2024 2 min read

• Tag: Copilot
• Tag: Generative AI

Microsoft is thrilled to announce the launch of GPT-4o, OpenAI’s new flagship model on Azure AI. This groundbreaking multimodal model integrates text, vision, and audio capabilities, setting a new standard for generative and conversational AI experiences. GPT-4o is available now in Azure OpenAI Service, to try in preview , with support for text and image.

Azure OpenAI Service

A step forward in generative AI for Azure OpenAI Service

GPT-4o offers a shift in how AI models interact with multimodal inputs. By seamlessly combining text, images, and audio, GPT-4o provides a richer, more engaging user experience.

Launch highlights: Immediate access and what you can expect

Azure OpenAI Service customers can explore GPT-4o’s extensive capabilities through a preview playground in Azure OpenAI Studio starting today in two regions in the US. This initial release focuses on text and vision inputs to provide a glimpse into the model’s potential, paving the way for further capabilities like audio and video.

Efficiency and cost-effectiveness

GPT-4o is engineered for speed and efficiency. Its advanced ability to handle complex queries with minimal resources can translate into cost savings and performance.

Potential use cases to explore with GPT-4o

The introduction of GPT-4o opens numerous possibilities for businesses in various sectors: 

• Enhanced customer service : By integrating diverse data inputs, GPT-4o enables more dynamic and comprehensive customer support interactions.
• Advanced analytics : Leverage GPT-4o’s capability to process and analyze different types of data to enhance decision-making and uncover deeper insights.
• Content innovation : Use GPT-4o’s generative capabilities to create engaging and diverse content formats, catering to a broad range of consumer preferences.

Exciting future developments: GPT-4o at Microsoft Build 2024 

We are eager to share more about GPT-4o and other Azure AI updates at Microsoft Build 2024 , to help developers further unlock the power of generative AI.

Get started with Azure OpenAI Service

Begin your journey with GPT-4o and Azure OpenAI Service by taking the following steps:

• Try out GPT-4o in Azure OpenAI Service Chat Playground (in preview).
• If you are not a current Azure OpenAI Service customer, apply for access by completing this form .
• Learn more about  Azure OpenAI Service  and the  latest enhancements.  
• Understand responsible AI tooling available in Azure with Azure AI Content Safety .
• Review the OpenAI blog on GPT-4o.

Let us know what you think of Azure and what you would like to see in the future.

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Definition of 'paper-mâché'

Paper-mâché in american english.

Browse alphabetically paper-mâché

• paper wrapper
• paper-cutter
• paper-mâché
• paper-pusher
• paper-shelled
• paper-shredder
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