Burnishing: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used in a more technical or industrial context when referring to the process of making a surface smooth and shiny through rubbing or polishing. Often relates to metals or hard surfaces.

• The craftsman spent hours burnishing the metal sculpture until it gleamed.
• Burnishing the floors gave them a high-gloss finish.

Widely used in both formal and informal settings to mean making something smooth, shiny, and clean by rubbing it. Can refer to physical objects or to refine non-physical attributes like skills or presentations.

• She polished the silverware before the dinner party.
• He needs to polish his speech before presenting it to the board.

Informal term that can be used in both technical and casual contexts. It denotes polishing something with a soft cloth to make it shine. It can also describe improving or enhancing in a broader sense.

• She buffed her nails until they shone brightly.
• He spends hours buffing his car to keep it looking new.

General term used to describe making something bright and reflective. It can be applied to a wide array of contexts, from cleaning surfaces to speaking about someone's talents or achievements.

• The sun makes the lake water shine like diamonds.
• Her performance on stage really shone.

Typically refers to the process of making a surface smooth and shiny by rubbing, often used in the context of metals and leather. It can also imply an enhancement of reputation or skill.

• He spent hours burnishing the metal to a high sheen
• His efforts in burnishing his public image proved successful

Generally means making a surface smooth and shiny through rubbing or chemical action. It's a more general term applicable to various materials like wood, metal, or jewelry.

• He spent the afternoon polishing the silverware for the dinner party
• The artist polished the sculpture until it had a mirror-like finish

Commonly associated with lightly polishing surfaces, especially floors, nails, or cars, to achieve a smooth finish. It suggests a gentler touch compared to polishing.

• She carefully buffed her nails to a smooth finish
• The maintenance staff buffed the marble floors until they gleamed

More often describes something that is already bright or reflective, may not involve extensive effort. It can also be used metaphorically to describe excellence.

• The sun was shining brightly in the sky
• She was shining at her new job, impressing everyone with her skills