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

• 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

The elastic waistband adds hidden comfort, while the pleats and drape elevate them for polished settings—think summer work events, outdoor dinners, or even light packing for an Italian vacation. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 5 Aug. 2025

The slippers’ smooth leather soles would be chalked to improve their grip on polished wooden floors. —Literary Hub, 4 Aug. 2025

In 2025, a polished college homepage can look like a luxury ad campaign. —Liz Doe Stone, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2025

Anyone who grew up watching Scheana evolve is getting front row seats to her next era, which puts a more polished and self‑aware version of herself at center-stage. —Roya Backlund, StyleCaster, 4 Aug. 2025

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