polished

adjective

pol·​ished ˈpä-lisht 

1

: subjected to polishing : made smooth and glossy by or as if by polishing

a polished surface

polished silver

2

: characterized by a high degree of development, finish, or refinement : free from imperfections

a polished performance/performer

a highly polished piece of writing

3

somewhat old-fashioned : characterized by elegance and refinement

a polished gentleman

polished society

Synonyms of polished

• sleek
• glossy
• glistening
• satin

Examples of polished in a Sentence

she could see her face reflected in the polished hood of the car

showing the polished manners of a cosmopolitan woman

Recent Examples on the Web

Dust surfaces first to remove debris and ensure a streak-free, polished finish. — Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 2 July 2026

Lululemon is the go-to place for comfy clothes that strike a balance between sporty and polished. — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 2 July 2026

Think of minimalist tailoring paired with an oversized button-down for a relaxed yet polished look at the office. — Cortne Bonilla, Vogue, 2 July 2026

Concrete or Polished Cement Concrete and polished cement floors come in a wide range of tones and finishes. — Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English polisshed, from past participle of polisshen to polish

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for polished

• abolished
• demolished
• unpolished