Meaning
patina, film, coating
- A thin layer, coating, or film on a surface caused by age, oxidation, or dirt.
- A superficial gloss or outward appearance concealing the true nature of something.
In a sentence
Sui vecchi mobili si era formata una sottile patina di polvere.
A thin film of dust had formed on the old furniture.
Il rame antico ha acquisito una splendida patina verde.
The antique copper has acquired a splendid green patina.
Il suo discorso aveva solo una patina di serietà.
His speech had only a veneer of seriousness.
Word forms (2)
| Word | Word forms |
|---|---|
| patina | feminine · singular |
| patine | feminine · plural |
Usage notes
- Often used figuratively for a superficial veneer, e.g., 'una patina di perbenismo'.