English Reference
adjective

polished

adj.
US /ˈpɑɫɪʃt/ UK /pˈɒlɪʃt/ pol·ished

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    having a surface that is very smooth and shiny because it has been rubbed.

    having a surface made smooth and glossy, typically through friction or the application of a chemical finish.

    Simple

    The hotel lobby had beautiful polished marble floors that reflected the lights.

    In context

    The restorer spent weeks working on the antique table until the polished mahogany surface regained its original deep luster.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    done with great skill and without any mistakes; elegant and professional.

    characterized by a high degree of skill, refinement, or professional finish; lacking rough edges in performance or social conduct.

    Simple

    She gave a very polished presentation that impressed all the managers.

    In context

    Despite the technical difficulties, the lead violinist delivered a polished performance that demonstrated her years of rigorous training.

    unskilledclumsyamateurish
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    having very good social skills and behaving in a polite, sophisticated way.

    possessing or showing elegant manners and social sophistication.

    Simple

    He was a polished gentleman who knew exactly how to make guests feel welcome.

    In context

    The diplomat's polished manner and careful choice of words helped de-escalate the tension during the international summit.

    uncouthrude

Yet a polished response can still be false, biased or poorly supported.

Phys.org· 19 Aug 2026

Three years on, he is returning with the follow-up: less uncut diamond this time and more, he hopes, a polished gem.

The Guardian· 19 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated