- 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. - That which resembles varnish, either naturally or
artificially; a glossy appearance. - An artificial covering to give a fair appearance to any
act or conduct; outside show; gloss. - 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. - 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.
Definition
[ n.]