Burnish: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in professional or technical settings to describe the act of making a surface smooth and shiny by rubbing, often in the context of metals or other hard materials.

• He used a special tool to burnish the metal until it gleamed
• The jeweler spent hours burnishing each piece to perfection

Used in a broad range of contexts, from cleaning and shining objects to improving skills or performances. Generally implies making something smooth and shiny or making it better overall.

• He polished his shoes before the interview
• She polished her speech until it was flawless

Often used to describe the natural or enhanced quality of reflecting light. It can be used in many contexts, from describing a bright, clean surface to metaphorically speaking about someone excelling or performing well.

• The silverware shone brightly under the chandelier
• She really shines in her new role at work

Commonly used to describe the action of polishing something with a cloth or a soft material. It can refer to the final stage of polishing to give a high shine and can also be used informally to mean improving or refining something.

• She buffed her nails with a soft cloth to make them shine
• They buffed the car to remove any scratches

To make something shiny or smooth, usually by rubbing. Often used literally for objects like metal but can be used metaphorically to refine or perfect a skill or reputation.

• He used a cloth to burnish the silver to a high shine
• She worked hard to burnish her professional image

To add to or improve something's quality, value, or attractiveness. Used in a variety of contexts including aesthetics, performance, and features.

• They added new features to enhance the software's usability
• The makeup was used to enhance her natural beauty

To make something better or more effective. Used broadly to indicate making progress or fixing flaws in almost any area, such as skills, conditions, or objects.

• The team worked together to improve their performance
• We need to improve our communication strategies

To make the surface of something smooth and shiny by rubbing it, or to make a performance or skill more refined and smooth. Often implies final touches or refinement.

• He took a few minutes to polish his shoes before the interview
• She practiced daily to polish her piano skills