dry-relief offset

dry-relief offset

[¦drī rə‚lēf ′ȯf‚set] (graphic arts) Referring to plates made for use on offset-lithographic presses, but printed without the use of dampeners and water; the plates are made photomechanically, and nonprinting areas are etched from 0.008 to 0.015 inch (0.2 to 0.4 millimeter) below the surface. Also known as high etch.