1. to develop or acquire a patina; to become covered with a thin layer of oxidation or discoloration over time
Usage: transitive or intransitive; often used in art, antiques, and metallurgy contexts
2. to artificially create or apply a patina to an object, typically for aesthetic or preservation purposes
Usage: transitive; technical or specialized use in restoration and art

Examples

• The copper roof will patinate naturally over several decades, turning from bright orange to deep green.
• Restorers carefully patinated the bronze sculpture to match its original appearance.
• As the antique silver patinated, it developed a rich, dark surface that collectors valued.
• The artist chose to patinate the metal frame rather than keep it shiny and new.
• Exposed to sea air, the iron gate began to patinate with rust and verdigris.
• Museum conservators sometimes patinate newly cleaned artifacts to protect them from further oxidation.