English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word varnish in English

What does varnish mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

varnish

US /ˈvɑːr.nɪʃ/
UK /ˈvɑː.nɪʃ/
"varnish" picture

Noun

1.

resin dissolved in a liquid for applying on wood, metal, or other materials to form a hard, clear, shiny surface when dry

Example:
•
She applied a coat of varnish to the wooden table.
•
The old floor needed a fresh coat of varnish.
Synonym:
lacquer shellac polish glaze resin
2.

an attractive external appearance that is intended to conceal the true nature or quality of something

Example:
•
His polite manners were just a thin varnish over his rude personality.
•
The politician's speech had a varnish of sincerity, but lacked real substance.
Synonym:
facade front mask disguise veneer

Verb

1.

apply varnish to (something)

Example:
•
He spent the afternoon varnishing the antique chest.
•
The carpenter will varnish the newly installed shelves tomorrow.
Synonym:
lacquer shellac polish glaze coat
2.

conceal or disguise (something) with an attractive outward appearance

Example:
•
He tried to varnish his mistakes with excuses.
•
The company tried to varnish the negative news with positive spin.
Synonym:
conceal disguise mask hide cover up
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Related Word:
nail varnish