cerate / serrate
some question with the phonetics – first has a /i/ and the second a /ɛ/ according to oed, but ceramist also has the /ɛ/ as the initial vowel followed by an “a” in the next syllable consider [‘sɛreit] especially with the “r”.
cerate – n – an unctuous preparation for external use consisting of wax or resin or spermaceti mixed with oil, lard and medicinal ingredients
serrate – adj. – notched or toothed on the edge specifically; having marginal teeth pointing forward or toward the apex of a serrate leaf