"varnish" Definition

Definitions for the word "varnish" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
A viscid liquid, consisting of a solution of resinous matter in an oil or a volatile liquid, laid on work with a brush, or otherwise. When applied the varnish soon dries, either by evaporation or chemical action, and the resinous part forms thus a smooth, hard surface, with a beautiful gloss, capable of resisting, to a greater or less degree, the influences of air and moisture.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
That which resembles varnish, either naturally or artificially; a glossy appearance.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
An artificial covering to give a fair appearance to any act or conduct; outside show; gloss.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
To lay varnish on; to cover with a liquid which produces, when dry, a hard, glossy surface; as, to varnish a table; to varnish a painting.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. n.
To cover or conceal with something that gives a fair appearance; to give a fair coloring to by words; to gloss over; to palliate; as, to varnish guilt.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. n.
1 resinous solution used to give a hard shiny transparent coating. 2 similar preparation (nail varnish). 3 deceptive outward appearance or show. v. 1 apply varnish to. 2 give a deceptively attractive appearance to. [french vernis, probably ultimately from berenice in cyrenaica]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "varnish" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "varnish" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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