Words / C1

GILD/ɡɪld/

To gild is to cover with a thin layer of gold, or to make something seem better than it is: gild the prospectus, gild the lily. Gold (already in the dictionary) is the metal; leaf on the cover does not raise an occupancy figure.

Meaning

To cover with a thin layer of gold, or to make something seem better than it is (from gold, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “Gild the prospectus if you must; gold leaf does not raise the occupancy cap.”
• “Gold is already in this course. Embellish is the close twin. Leaf is branding. A number on a certificate is the rule. Keep the number; hang the leaf in the foyer if the inspector still allows it.”

Good to know

Cover with gold; make it look better. Noun: gold (already in the dictionary). Leaf ≠ a cap.

Near in meaning

embellish, varnish, coat

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