1. covered with a clear, shiny coating that protects and gives a glossy finish
2. made to appear better or more attractive than reality; embellished
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The varnished wooden table gleamed in the sunlight.
• She ran her fingers over the varnished surface of the piano.
• The antique chair had a beautifully varnished finish.
• His varnished reputation hid his true character.
• The boat’s varnished deck was slippery when wet.
• The story seemed too varnished to be completely true.