burnish

Meanings

Verb

• To make (something) smooth or shiny by rubbing; to polish or shine (something)
• To shine forth; to brighten; to become smooth and glossy, as from swelling or filling out; hence, to grow large.
• To make (someone or something) appear positive and highly respected.

Noun

• Polish; lustre.

Origin

• From Middle English burnysshen, burnischen, a borrowing from Old French burnir, from its stem '''', variant of brunir, from Old French brun. More at English brown.