vernis
/vərˈnɪs/
The English word varnish is vernis in Dutch.
vernis is used to refer to a transparent paint.
Meaning: transparent paint (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/vərˈnɪs/
Did you know?
- If you are looking for 'nail polish' in a Dutch shop, you would not use vernis, but rather the word nagellak.
- While vernis refers to the material, the Dutch phrase een vernisje uses a diminutive suffix to describe a very thin, artistic layer of gloss. Diminutives are used frequently in Dutch to denote precision or delicacy.
- In an artistic context, vernis is often distinguished from lak. While both can mean 'varnish' or 'lacquer', lak typically refers to a harder, industrial coating, whereas vernis is associated with fine arts and oil paintings.
Examples in context
- De meubelmaker gebruikte een heldere lak om het houten oppervlak te beschermen.The furniture maker used a clear varnish to protect the wooden surface.
- Ik denk dat ik mijn tafel moet bedekken met een laag blanke lak.I think I should cover my table with a layer of clear varnish.
- De tafel heeft een laag vernis nodig.The table needs a layer of varnish.
- Ik breng de vernis voorzichtig aan.I am applying the varnish carefully.
- De vernis op dit hout is glanzend.The varnish on this wood is shiny.
Example conversation
Lisa and Lucas are working on a woodworking project in the garage.
- LisaHeb je de vernis al gekocht?Have you bought the varnish yet?
- LucasJa, de vernis ligt in de schuur.Yes, the varnish is in the shed.
- LisaGoed, ik ga de kast nu afwerken.Good, I am going to finish the cabinet now.
- LucasPas op dat de vernis niet druipt.Be careful that the varnish doesn't drip.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry vernis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
