varnish
UK: ˈvɑːnɪʃ | US: ˈvɑːrnɪʃ
n. a liquid that is applied to a surface to give it a hard, clear, shiny coating
vt. to apply varnish to a surface
vt. (figurative) to give a deceptive or superficial appearance to something
The word "varnish" traces back to Old French vernis, derived from Medieval Latin veronix or veronice, likely borrowed from Byzantine Greek Berenikē (a resin named after the city of Berenice in ancient Libya). The original sense referred to a shiny resin used for coating. Over time, the term evolved to denote any glossy protective liquid applied to surfaces. The -ish suffix (common in verb formation) was added in Middle English, solidifying its modern meaning.
The carpenter applied a layer of varnish to the wooden table.
Sunlight reflected off the varnished floorboards.
Her polite smile was a varnish over her true frustration.
The artist waited for the varnish to dry before framing the painting.
Critics accused the report of varnishing the harsh realities of the policy.