patina

[ pat-n-uh, puh-tee-nuh ]

noun

1. a film or incrustation, usually green, produced by oxidation on the surface of old bronze and often esteemed as being of ornamental value.
2. a similar film or coloring appearing gradually on some other substance.
3. a surface calcification of implements, usually indicating great age.

patina

¹

/ ˈpætɪnə /

noun

1. a film of oxide formed on the surface of a metal, esp the green oxidation of bronze or copper See also verdigris
2. any fine layer on a surface

   a patina of frost

3. the sheen on a surface that is caused by much handling

patina

²

/ ˈpætɪnə /

noun

1. a broad shallow dish used in ancient Rome

Word History and Origins

Origin of patina¹

1740–50; < Italian: coating < Latin: pan. See paten

Word History and Origins

Origin of patina¹

C18: from Italian: coating, from Latin: patina ²

Origin of patina²

from Latin, from Greek patanē platter

Example Sentences

Until July 28, the country was authoritarian with a patina of democracy, holding periodic unfree, unfair elections.

From Los Angeles Times

Usually, dog whistles contain a patina of “plausible deniability” for hiding racial animus.

From Salon

A bronze “Sentinel,” its surface featuring a rich black patina, transforms a traditional sphinx motif.

From Los Angeles Times

The next day, participants buffed their objects and applied chemical solvents to create patinas and finishes before heading back to the city.

From Los Angeles Times

New Yorkers are used to con artists – it is part of the patina of everyday life in Manhattan.

From Salon

Related Words

• blanket
• coat
• crust
• glaze
• layer
• membrane
• sheet
• skin
• varnish
• veneer