First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1gild
verb \ˈgild\
: to cover (something) with a thin layer of gold
gild·ed \ˈgil-dəd\ or gilt \ˈgilt\ gild·ing
Full Definition of GILD
transitive verb
1
: to overlay with or as if with a thin covering of gold
2
a : to give money to b : to give an attractive but often deceptive appearance to c archaic : to make bloody
— gild·er noun
— gild the lily
: to add unnecessary ornamentation to something beautiful in its own right
See gild defined for English-language learners
See gild defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of GILD
Middle English, from Old English gyldan; akin to Old English gold gold
2gild
Definition of GILD
variant of guild
GILD THE LILY Defined for Kids
gild
verb \ˈgild\
gild·ed or gilt \ˈgilt\gild·ing
Definition of GILD for Kids
: to cover with a thin coating of gold <gilded doors>
Learn More About GILD
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: gilded flickerPrevious Word in the Dictionary: Gilbert's relief grassAll Words Near: gild
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up gild? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).