Definition

To take away the silver coating from an object, such as a mirror, or to extract silver from a mixture.

Example

The technician had to desilver the old mirror before restoring it.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I found an old mirror in the attic that needs some work.

Really? What are you planning to do with it?

I might try to desilver it and see if it can be restored.

That sounds like a fun project — I’d love to see how it turns out!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Desilver → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "silver" (from Old English "seolfor", meaning the metal silver). The word "desilver" means to remove silver or to take away silver from something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'silver' from an object — that's what desilver means.

Visually Confused Words