Definition of "varnish" in English

noun

1. A clear or translucent liquid coating composed of resin dissolved in a solvent, which dries by evaporation to form a hard, protective, and typically glossy finish.

2. Anything resembling such a coating; a glossy appearance.

3. (figuratively, by extension) A deceptively showy appearance.

4. (rail transport, US, informal, dated) A passenger train, probably derived from the varnished passenger cars used at one time.

verb

1. (intransitive) To apply varnish.

2. (transitive) To cover up with varnish.

3. (transitive) To make something superficially or deceptively attractive

   • varnish the report

4. (transitive) To gloss over a defect.