GLOSSING Synonyms: 36 Similar and Opposite Words

glossing

verb

present participle of gloss

as in polishing

to make smooth or glossy usually by repeatedly applying surface pressure the action of the water will serve to gloss the seal's coat

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of glossing The easy-to-use glossing treatment, which should be applied to damp hair and followed by a blow dryer to activate the frizz-fighting alpha acids, is a semi-permanent smoothing spray that basically creates a water-resistant shield to prevent flyaways—even in the most humid of places. — Eva Thomas, InStyle, 9 Apr. 2026 Critchley, glossing Julian of Norwich, draws a distinction between seeing and seeing through creation, but this is a false dichotomy. — Christian Wiman, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025 The downside was often a glossing-over of the tactics used to amass such fortunes. — Heller McAlpin, Christian Science Monitor, 3 June 2025

Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossing

Verb

Sangare is not the finished product, but Brentford’s track record of finding and polishing young players with high potential casts this move in a promising light.

— Cerys Jones, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
Born into a Krymchak Jewish family in Haifa and raised poor in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Bakshi entered the animation industry at just 18, polishing dirt from cels at Terrytoons.

— Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of polishing

Verb

For someone with a flexible foot or a narrow forefoot where the toes tend to crowd each other, separating the big toe from the second toe can reduce rubbing and irritation.

— Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 24 Aug. 2026
The forward has also trademarked his nickname ‘Cold Palmer’, a nod to his celebration, crossing and rubbing his arms as though to warm himself up.

— Hannah Vanbiber, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of rubbing

Verb

Instead of a pomade stick, Tauber recommends using Oribe Gel Sérum on coils, applying a generous amount around the hairline before smoothing it back with a boar bristle brush.

— Marci Robin, Allure, 21 Aug. 2026
The combination bristles feel amazing on my scalp (like the best head scratch ever) while also smoothing my incredibly frizzy hair.

— Kiana Murden, Vogue, 17 Aug. 2026