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patina

noun

/pəˈtinə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of patina

A thin layer or coating that forms on the surface of certain materials, usually metals, due to natural weathering or exposure to air and water.
"The antique vase had a beautiful green patina from years of oxidation."

Detailed meaning of patina

This layer can be a result of oxidation, corrosion, or other chemical reactions that occur over time, causing the material to take on a unique color or texture. Patina is often seen as a desirable characteristic of antique or vintage items, as it adds to their visual appeal and can indicate their age or history. Patina can range from a deep brown or green on copper or bronze to a reddish-brown on iron or steel, and can be found on a variety of objects including sculptures, furniture, and jewelry. Overall, patina is a natural process that adds to the beauty and uniqueness of an object.

Example sentences containing patina

1. The antique brass doorknob had developed a beautiful green patina.
2. The old book had a charming patina on its leather cover.
3. The copper statue's patina gave it a timeless appearance.
4. The weathered wood had a silvery patina from years of exposure.
5. His grandfather's watch had a well-worn patina from decades of use.
6. The historic building's exterior had a rich patina that told its story.

History and etymology of patina

The noun 'patina' has its origins in Latin, stemming from the word 'patina,' which originally referred to a shallow dish or plate used for serving food. Over time, it came to signify the thin layer or coating that naturally forms on the surface of certain materials, especially metals, due to the effects of time, weathering, exposure to air, and contact with water or other substances. The etymology of 'patina' reflects its culinary origins, highlighting the idea of a thin layer or surface that develops over time, akin to the way flavors and character can develop in a dish through cooking. In the context of materials like metal, it underscores the natural and often aesthetically pleasing transformation that occurs as they age and acquire a unique and sometimes verdant patina.

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Further usage examples of patina

1. The artist used a special technique to replicate the look of patina on her paintings.
2. The vintage car's chrome bumpers had a gleaming patina.
3. Time had given the bronze sculpture a deep, rich patina.
4. The old farmhouse had a rustic charm with its weathered patina.
5. The ancient coins had a distinct patina that indicated their age.
6. The furniture restoration expert worked to preserve the original patina.
7. The silverware had a tarnished patina that spoke of countless meals.
8. The shipwreck's artifacts were covered in a layer of oceanic patina.
9. The historic church's bells had a well-preserved patina.
10. The copper roofing had a greenish patina from years of exposure to the elements.
11. The vintage vinyl records had a worn patina on their covers.
12. The sea-salted air had given the lighthouse a weathered patina.
13. The bronze plaques on the monument had a polished patina from countless touches.
14. The antique mirror's frame had a golden patina that added to its elegance.
15. The copper statue had developed a deep brown patina over time.
16. The old bronze door handle had a unique patina that added to its charm.
17. The vintage car's paint job had a distinctive patina that spoke to its age.
18. The worn leather chair had a rich patina that showed its history.
19. The old coins had a unique patina that made them more valuable to collectors.
20. The bronze sculpture had a glossy patina that reflected the light beautifully.
21. The antique mirror frame had a greenish-blue patina that added to its character.
22. The rusty iron fence had a reddish-brown patina that gave it a rustic look.
23. The vintage watch had a golden-brown patina on its surface from years of wear.
24. The old wooden ship had a weathered patina that told stories of its voyages.
25. The weathered stone statue had a natural patina that made it look ancient.