Word
polished
Phoneticspol·ished, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpɑɫɪʃt/
UK/pˈɒlɪʃt/
Definitions
01shiny and smooth
B1 · Intermediate
adj. having a surface that is very smooth and shiny because it has been rubbed.
adj. having a surface made smooth and glossy, typically through friction or the application of a chemical finish.
“The hotel lobby had beautiful polished marble floors that reflected the lights.”
“The restorer spent weeks working on the antique table until the polished mahogany surface regained its original deep luster.”
02professional and skilled
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. done with great skill and without any mistakes; elegant and professional.
adj. characterized by a high degree of skill, refinement, or professional finish; lacking rough edges in performance or social conduct.
“She gave a very polished presentation that impressed all the managers.”
“Despite the technical difficulties, the lead violinist delivered a polished performance that demonstrated her years of rigorous training.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
03refined in manner
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. having very good social skills and behaving in a polite, sophisticated way.
adj. possessing or showing elegant manners and social sophistication.
“He was a polished gentleman who knew exactly how to make guests feel welcome.”
“The diplomat's polished manner and careful choice of words helped de-escalate the tension during the international summit.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“Yet a polished response can still be false, biased or poorly supported.” “Three years on, he is returning with the follow-up: less uncut diamond this time and more, he hopes, a polished gem.” “She explains that thicker straps are a safer option where the dress code is unclear and recommends satin camisoles as a more polished alternative to basic cotton vests.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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