lac1 /lak 
/ ▸ noun [mass noun] a resinous substance secreted as a protective covering by the lac insect, used to make varnish, shellac, sealing wax, dyes, etc.. – ORIGIN late Middle English: from medieval Latin lac, lac(c)a, from Portuguese laca, based on Hindi lākh or Persian lāk.
EnglishOxford Dictionary of English
