1. polishes or makes smooth and shiny by rubbing
2. enhances or improves the quality or reputation of something
Usage: figurative

Examples

• She burnishes the silver candlesticks until they gleam.
• The jeweler burnishes each ring to perfection.
• He burnishes his reputation through charitable work.
• The company burnishes its image with environmental initiatives.
• The craftsman burnishes the metal surface with fine sandpaper.
• Regular practice burnishes her musical skills.