Burnishing
/ˈbɜːrnɪʃɪŋ/noun
The process of polishing a surface to a shine by rubbing it.
Did you know?In ancient times, burnishing was often seen as a ritual act, believed to imbue objects with protective or magical properties through the act of polishing them to a high sheen.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*bher-
“to shine or glow, often associated with heat or fire.”
Old English
Old English
bearnian
“to make bright or to polish.”
Middle English
Middle English
burnischen
“to polish or smooth by rubbing.”
14th Century
Middle English
burnishen
“to brighten or make glossy by rubbing.”
Modern English
English
burnishing
“the act of polishing or smoothing a surface to enhance its shine.”