polished

1 of 2

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

polished

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of polish entry 1

Synonyms of polished

Adjective

• sleek
• glossy
• glistening
• satin

Examples of polished in a Sentence

Adjective

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

Adjective

The Moon in your sign trines Chiron in your creative 5th house, encouraging you to show a side of yourself that isn’t polished for approval. — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 19 Sep. 2026

The bedroom is equally polished, anchored by a four-poster bed and featuring an ensuite suite bathroom that’s equipped with a small fireplace, pink marble sink, and a copper bathtub accented by wood cabinetry. — Katharine Sohn, Architectural Digest, 18 Sep. 2026

With the polished appearance of a two-piece and the convenience of a one-piece, this classic dress is a standout for fall and beyond. — Jacquelyn McGilvray, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026

The kitchen is similarly polished, centered on a large stone island and a La Cornue Château range, with custom cabinetry and brass hardware. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English polisshed, from past participle of polisshen to polish

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for polished

• abolished
• demolished
• unpolished