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patina

pat·i·na [ pátt'nə, pə tnə ] (plural pat·i·nas or pat·i·nae [ pátt'nee ])


noun 
Definition:
 
1. thin green layer on copper: a thin layer formed by corrosion on the surface of some metals and minerals, especially the green layer that covers copper and bronze and is valued for its color

2. surface sheen: a pleasing surface sheen that develops on an object with age or frequent handling

3. superficial layer: a thin or superficial layer on something

[Mid-18th century. Via Italian< Latin (see paten)]

pat·i·nat·ed [ pátt'n àytəd ] adjective
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