Gilt

/ɡɪlt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A thin layer of gold or a golden appearance.

The picture frame was made of gilt, shining brightly in the sunlight.

Something that is gilded, or has a golden decorative finish.

The gilt accents on the furniture added an air of elegance to the room.

adjective

Covered with a thin layer of gold; gilded.

She wore a beautiful gilt bracelet that sparkled with every movement.

Having a superficially attractive or deceptive appearance.

Beneath the gilt surface of the gala, there were many underlying issues that needed addressing.

Middle English 'gilt', past participle of 'gilden', meaning to cover with gold.

gilt-edged

Referring to something regarded as secure or of high quality.

gilt complex

A psychological or societal tendency to value appearances over substance.

gild

To cover with a thin layer of gold.

gilding

The application of gold leaf or gold paint.

Something that is superficially attractive or ornate.

That car may look good, but it's just gilded.

Used to describe someone who is flashy but lacks depth.

She's all gilt and no substance.