var´nish|er

var|nish «VAHR nihsh», noun, verb.

–n.

1. a) a thin, transparent liquid that gives a smooth, hard, glossy, and durable or ornamental surface on wood, metal, or the like. Varnish is made from substances like resin dissolved in oil, turpentine, or alcohol. b) any one of various natural or synthetic substances having a similar use.

2. the smooth, hard surface made by this liquid when it dries: »

The varnish on the table has been scratched.

3. a glossy or lustrous appearance: »

ivy glistening with leaves of high varnish. A cloudy and rainy day takes the varnish off the scenery.

4. Figurative. a false or deceiving appearance; a pretense: »

She covers her selfishness with a varnish of good manners.

–v.t.

1. a) to put varnish on; coat with varnish. b) to smear or stain with some substance similar to varnish.

2. to embellish or adorn; improve the appearance of (something).

3. Figurative. to give a false or deceiving appearance to: »

to varnish over the truth with a lie.

╂[Middle English vernich < Old French vernis, verniz < Medieval Latin vernix, vernica odorous resin < Late Greek verenē < Greek Berenē, an ancient city in Libya]

–var´nish|er, noun.