furbish

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈfɜːrbɪʃ/

KK: /ˈfɜrˌbɪʃ/

transitive verb

Definition

To make something clean and shiny by rubbing it or to improve its appearance or condition.

Example

She decided to furbish the old silverware before the dinner party.

Tense Forms

Past: furbished

Past Participle: furbished

Conversation

I decided to furbish my old coffee table this weekend.

That sounds like a fun project! What do you have in mind?

I think I might paint it and furbish the surface to make it shine.

Great idea! A little polish can really make a piece look brand new.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

polish

refurbish

revamp

Antonyms

dull

damage

ruin

Root Explanation

Furbish → It is derived from the Old French word *furbir*, meaning to polish or brighten. The word refers to the act of making something bright or clean, often by polishing it.

Memory Tip

Imagine polishing something to make it shine — that's what furbish means, to brighten or clean something up.

Visually Confused Words