gilding

[ gil-ding ]

noun

1. the application of gilt. gild. gilt.
2. the gold leaf or other material with which something is gilded. gild. gilded.
3. the golden surface produced by the application of gilt. gild. gilt.
4. something used to create a deceptively pleasing, impressive, or alluring aspect or character.

gilding

/ ˈɡɪldɪŋ /

noun

1. the act or art of applying gilt to a surface
2. the surface so produced
3. See gilt
   another word for gilt 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of gilding¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50; gild ¹, -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Analyses reveal that as the gilding decayed, it formed gold spheres invisible to the naked eye that are responsible for the purple color, the researchers report online September 9 in Science Advances.

From Science News

As his eye became accustomed to the gloom, David Arden saw traces of gilding on the walls.

From Project Gutenberg

The Turks (especially those of the lower orders) use a kind of clay pipe made of red earth decorated with gilding.

From Project Gutenberg

The elegant roof was supported on three rows of red sandstone pillars, adorned with chaste gilding and stucco-work.

From Project Gutenberg

A rich, tender sunshine is streaming in through the windows, and gilding the stately edifice with the purest light.

From Project Gutenberg

The true man stands out in his native dignity and the gilding is rubbed off the hypocrite.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• adornment
• coloring
• embroidery
• ornamentation