Is patina a good or bad thing?

It can be either. In art and design, it often sounds attractive and valued.

What is the difference between patina and rust?

Patina is a surface change over time. Rust is a type of damage on iron or steel.

Can patina be used for wood and leather?

Yes. It can describe the aged look of wood, leather, and other surfaces.

Is patina formal or informal?

It is fairly formal and common in writing about art, design, and antiques.

← Dictionary

patina

/pəˈtiː.nə/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A thin layer that forms on metal, wood, or other surfaces over time. It can be caused by age, weather, or use, and may change the surface's colour or shine.

The old statue had a green patina.
The table developed a warm patina over years.
Her leather bag has a lovely patina.

Adinary Nuance

Patina is not just any dirt or stain. It usually suggests age, texture, and a surface that has changed naturally over time. Writers often choose it over “coating” or “layer” when they want a more elegant, aged feel.

In other languages

Vietnamese: lớp gỉ màu
Spanish: pátina
Chinese: 包浆
Japanese: 古色
Korean: 녹청

Etymology

Patina comes from Latin, where it meant a shallow dish or a surface coating. English borrowed the word in the 1600s, later using it for the aged layer on objects.

Common phrases

a patina of agegreen patinaa natural patinadevelop a patina

Synonyms

sheen film layer

Related words

rust tarnish oxidation weathering

Frequently asked questions

Is patina a good or bad thing?: It can be either. In art and design, it often sounds attractive and valued.
What is the difference between patina and rust?: Patina is a surface change over time. Rust is a type of damage on iron or steel.
Can patina be used for wood and leather?: Yes. It can describe the aged look of wood, leather, and other surfaces.
Is patina formal or informal?: It is fairly formal and common in writing about art, design, and antiques.