VARNISHING Synonyms: 36 Similar and Opposite Words

varnishing

verb

present participle of varnish

as in polishing

to cover (something) with varnish He varnished the table.

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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 varnishing Like most ’80s metal heroes who briefly lost their way in the late ’90s, Megadeth have spent the 21st century varnishing their legacy with what’s tried and true, delivering eight LPs since 2001 that all basically sound the same. — Eli Enis, Pitchfork, 26 Jan. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for varnishing

Verb

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, New Atlas, 9 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

Definition of polishing

Verb

They’re made from four-way stretch fabric and feature a wide 4-inch waistband with tummy-smoothing support, a modest 9-inch inseam, and front and back pockets for hands-free convenience.

— Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 12 July 2026
The best eye creams for wrinkles minimize the appearance of fine lines while smoothing, firming, and hydrating your eye area.

— Daley Quinn, Glamour, 9 July 2026

Definition of smoothing

Verb

But the real pleasure is the 303 basslines that squirm in between the drums, coating the soundscapes of the tracks in grime and noxious soot.

— Andrew Ryce, Pitchfork, 1 July 2026
The Shanghai researchers say the coating can be applied using conventional automotive spray-coating techniques.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 26 June 2026

Definition of coating

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varnishes

varnishing

vary

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“Varnishing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/varnishing. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of varnishing

verb

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