ormolu

American  

[awr-muh-loo] / ˈɔr məˌlu /

noun

1. Also called mosaic gold.  an alloy of copper and zinc used to imitate gold.

2. Also called bronze doré,.  Also called gilt bronze.  gilded metal, especially cast brass or bronze gilded over fire with an amalgam of gold and mercury, used for furniture mounts and ornamental objects.

3. gold or gold powder prepared for use in gilding.

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ormolu British  

/ ˈɔːməˌluː /

noun

1. 1. a gold-coloured alloy of copper, tin, or zinc used to decorate furniture, mouldings, etc

   2. ( as modifier )

      an ormolu clock

2. gold prepared to be used for gilding

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Etymology

Origin of ormolu

1755–65; < French or moulu ground gold, equivalent to or (< Latin aurum ) + moulu, past participle of moudre to grind < Latin molere

Example Sentences

De la Renta’s longtime friend John Richardson, writing of that particular domestic incarnation, recalled how "the flicker of candles highlights the glint of ormolu, the gleam of marble and bronze."

From Architectural Digest • Oct. 21, 2014

At Frank Partridge, there’s a gaudy, repellent yet fascinating Directoire ormolu mantel clock made in France in 1795.

From New York Times • Oct. 16, 2014

Despite the ormolu gewgaws and the polyester Nik Nik shirts, Behind the Candelabra soars effortlessly above the perils of campy kitsch.

From Slate • May 23, 2013

Where viewers might see shiny patterns, McMillan sees ormolu mounts.

From The Guardian • Feb. 27, 2011

“You says that, but your face says you’re getting involved. Focus: We go to Archos, sell the ormolu pearls, pick up the sailcloth, and go on to Paraspara. I have laid outs the route!”

From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell