noun / verb
gloss
A shiny layer covering a surface.
A fresh coat of varnish gives the table a bright gloss.
Etymology
The surface-layer sense extends gloss, “shine.” Its deeper Germanic ancestry is uncertain.
More examples
- Gentle polishing restores the gloss on the wooden bowl.
- The painter glosses the door after the primer dries.
- She wears clear lip gloss for a little shine.
Forms
gloss · glosses · glossed · glossing
glossy adjective — Having a smooth surface that reflects light.