POLISHING Synonyms: 70 Similar and Opposite Words

polishing

verb

present participle of polish

as in rubbing

to make smooth or glossy usually by repeatedly applying surface pressure you'll need to polish your shoes with a clean rag before the performance

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in finishing

to bring (something) to a state where nothing remains to be done once you polish the article a bit, it'll be ready to submit

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 polishing The investment of time and money put into excavating and polishing a skeleton such as Gus would not be possible, according to Hatton, without the prospect of a high-value sale. — Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 13 July 2026 Rather than using a standard stonewash, TacticalGeek says the blade is hand-finished with sanding and polishing steps that refine the surface from coarse to fine, while the groove area uses EDM machining for extra texture and visual depth. — New Atlas, 9 July 2026 Microfiber is also often the better choice for effectively trapping dust and polishing surfaces without the risk of leaving behind lint or scratches. — Jamie Cuccinelli, Martha Stewart, 6 July 2026 Sullivan practices with UConn’s Fencing Club and is still polishing her skills, but the sport is no longer her top priority. — Elijah Polance, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2026 However, Capcom has been hard at work polishing it like an authentic Hattori Hanzō sword. — Zackery Cuevas, PC Magazine, 2 July 2026 Parker Kitternan was busy at the console of the church's pipe organ, polishing his musical tribute for the weekend. — Joe Holden, CBS News, 29 June 2026 The deceptively roomy, buttery-smooth leather style features a convertible crossbody strap, metal feet, interior pockets, and an outfit-polishing silhouette. — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 13 June 2026 Prioritizing Features Over User Intent A common user experience mistake is polishing the surface instead of solving for the moment of intent. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for polishing

Verb

With eight goals and two assists so far this tournament, the GOAT will be rubbing his hands.

— Mark Hodge, NBC news, 15 July 2026
For washable fabrics, avoid rubbing aggressively as this action can push the stain deeper into the material fibers.

— Sheila Kim, The Spruce, 13 July 2026

Definition of rubbing

Verb

Triple-double with meaning LeBron left no doubt about his championship impact in closing out that first title in 2012 against the Thunder, finishing that series-winning Game 5 victory with 26 points, 11 rebounds and 13 assists.

— Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 20 July 2026
The improvement continued with a 3-0 hammering of Austria in the round of 32, including a double from centre-forward Oyarzabal and right-back Pedro Porro finishing off a neat team move.

— Dermot Corrigan, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Definition of finishing

Verb

This smoothing body treatment includes retinol to fight fine lines and wrinkles, shea butter for moisture, and vitamin C and E to protect against environmental factors that lead to signs of aging.

— Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 18 July 2026
The new schedule aligns with the National Women’s Soccer League, smoothing the process for player loans.

— Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 16 July 2026

Definition of smoothing

Verb

Third, Rose made strategic investments in role players, completing the roster without chasing headlines.

— Robert Reiss, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
The ruling granted a temporary restraining order prohibiting the firms from completing the merger and from consolidating their operations.

— Jon Brodkin, ArsTechnica, 20 July 2026

Definition of completing

Verb

Most people use the miracle sponge for buffing out wall or floor scuffs, but Macqueen’s recommendation is an eye-opener.

— Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 July 2026
Finally, to ensure the doors are working smoothly, Sibley suggests applying high-quality car wax to the aluminum, buffing off the wax with a microfiber towel, and then finishing with a light coat of WD40 or Silicone spray on the rollers.

— Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 6 July 2026

Definition of buffing

Verb

Start by scrubbing the area with a baking soda and water paste, rinse, and then spray with hydrogen peroxide and leave for 10 to 20 minutes.

— Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 14 July 2026
Depending on the material of the grates, keep them clean by soaking and scrubbing with a few household ingredients.

— Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 12 July 2026