patina
noun/ˈpætɪnə/
/pəˈtiːnə/
[usually singular]- a green, black or brown layer that forms on the surface of some metals
- The bronze statue had acquired a hard green patina with age.
- a thin layer that forms on other materials; the shiny surface that develops on wood or leather when it is polished
- The furniture was old, with the shiny patina of frequent polishing.
- (figurative) He looked relaxed and elegant and had the patina of success.
Word Originmid 18th cent.: from Italian, from Latin patina ‘shallow dish’.
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