Definition of varnish

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< Varna

varnish tree >

var·nish    (värnsh) KEY  

NOUN:

1. 1. A paint containing a solvent and an oxidizing or evaporating binder, used to coat a surface with a hard, glossy, transparent film.
   2. The smooth coating or gloss resulting from the application of this paint.
2. 1. Something suggestive of or resembling varnish.
   2. A deceptively attractive external appearance; an outward show.

TRANSITIVE VERB:
var·nished , var·nish·ing , var·nish·es

1. To cover with varnish.
2. To give a smooth and glossy finish to.
3. To give a deceptively attractive appearance to; gloss over.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English vernisshe, from Old French vernis, from Medieval Latin veronix, vernix, sandarac resin, from Medieval Greek verenik, from Greek Berenik Berenice (Benghazi), an ancient city of Cyrenaica

OTHER FORMS:
varnish·er (Noun)

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