adjective Uncommon

gilded

GIHL-dihd

Gilded (adjective) means covered with a thin layer of gold, or having the appearance of gold. Example: “The museum displayed a gilded picture frame from the 1800s.”

adjective

Covered with a thin layer of gold, or having the appearance of gold.

"The museum displayed a gilded picture frame from the 1800s."

Looking impressive or luxurious on the surface while hiding problems underneath.

"Behind the gilded lifestyle was a family drowning in debt."

How to Use Gilded

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishCovered in gold, or more figuratively, dazzling on the surface but possibly hollow underneath.

Common pairings

gilded frame gilded age gilded cage

Word Forms

more gilded comparative, most gilded superlative

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The museum displayed a _____ picture frame from the 1800s.

Etymology

From the verb "gild" (to cover with gold) plus -ed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “gilded” mean?

The word “gilded” means covered with a thin layer of gold, or having the appearance of gold. In plain terms, covered in gold, or more figuratively, dazzling on the surface but possibly hollow underneath.

How do you pronounce “gilded”?

“Gilded” is pronounced GIHL-dihd (/ˈɡɪldɪd/ in IPA).

How do you use “gilded” in a sentence?

Here is “gilded” used in a sentence: “The museum displayed a gilded picture frame from the 1800s.”

What part of speech is “gilded”?

“Gilded” is an adjective.

Is “gilded” a common word?

“Gilded” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “gilded” have?

“Gilded” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: covered with a thin layer of gold, or having the appearance of gold.