Varnish

(vahr'nish.) [Fr. vernis.] A fluid which, when spread thinly over a solid surface, forms a coating impervious to air and moisture; and generally gives it a smooth and polished appearance. Varnishes are formed by di olving substances, which are almost always resinous, in rectified alcohol, or in fixed or volatile oils; thus producing spirit varnishes, or oil varnishes. The resins most generally used are Turpentine, Copal, Lac, Mastic, Elemi, Sandarach, Amber, Benzoin, Amine, Camboge, Dragon's blood, Caoutchouc, and Asphaltum. [s. 930]