varnish

US /ˈvɑːr.nɪʃ/
UK /ˈvɑːr.nɪʃ/
"varnish" picture
1.

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

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She applied a coat of varnish to the wooden table.
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The old floor needed a fresh coat of varnish.
:
lacquershellacpolishglazeresin
2.

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

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His polite manners were just a thin varnish over his rude personality.
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The politician's speech had a varnish of sincerity, but lacked real substance.
:
facadefrontmaskdisguiseveneer
1.

apply varnish to (something)

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He spent the afternoon varnishing the antique chest.
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The carpenter will varnish the newly installed shelves tomorrow.
:
lacquershellacpolishglazecoat
2.

conceal or disguise (something) with an attractive outward appearance

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He tried to varnish his mistakes with excuses.
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The company tried to varnish the negative news with positive spin.
:
concealdisguisemaskhidecover up
:
nail varnish