Antique Collecting Terms

noun a thin layer of gold or a substance resembling gold that is applied to a surface

verb to cover with a thin layer of gold

• The antique mirror frame was adorned with intricate gilt patterns.
• I found a beautiful gilt picture frame at the flea market.
• Check out the gilt edges on this book, it looks so fancy!
• His words were like gilt promises, shiny and attractive but ultimately hollow.

noun used to refer to a person or thing that is no longer in existence or use

adjective describing a person or thing that has been alive or in existence for a long time

• The antique vase is very old and valuable.
• My grandma's house is really old but cozy.
• That car is so old, it's practically a dinosaur.
• The old ways of doing things are no longer effective in this modern world.

noun a green or brown film on the surface of old bronze or similar metals

• The antique vase had developed a beautiful patina over the years.
• I love the way that old book has a cool patina on its cover.
• That vintage car has a sick patina that really adds character.
• The small town had a charming patina of nostalgia that drew visitors in.

adjective describing something of such great value that it cannot be measured or compared

• The artwork in the museum is truly priceless and cannot be replaced.
• The look on her face when she saw the surprise party was priceless.
• When she slipped on the banana peel, her expression was just priceless!
• His friendship is truly priceless, worth more than any material possession.

adjective showing signs of wear or age; lacking freshness or originality

• The shopworn merchandise was marked down for clearance.
• I don't want to buy that shopworn sweater, it looks old and worn out.
• I can't believe she's still trying to sell that shopworn stuff.
• His shopworn excuses no longer held any weight with his boss.

verb past tense of tarnish; to make or become less valuable or respected

adjective having a dull or discolored appearance; stained or spoiled

• The reputation of the company was tarnished after the scandal.
• Her once shiny jewelry now looks tarnished.
• The gossip tarnished her image in school.
• The memories of that day were tarnished by the tragic event.

adjective a word that describes or modifies a noun, in this case, 'time-worn' describes something that appears old or worn due to the passage of time

• The time-worn artifacts in the museum provide valuable insights into ancient civilizations.
• I love browsing through time-worn books at the used bookstore.
• That jacket looks so time-worn, it's practically vintage.
• Her time-worn smile told a story of resilience and wisdom.

adjective A word that describes or modifies a noun, in this case, 'well-worn' describes something that has been used or worn down over time.

• The well-worn path through the forest indicated frequent use by hikers.
• I could tell by the well-worn look of his shoes that he had been on many adventures.
• Those well-worn jeans of yours are really cool.
• Her well-worn smile showed that she had been through a lot in life.

noun A term used to describe a collection of kitchen items or utensils

• The antique store had a collection of rare kitchenalia items from the 19th century.
• I love browsing through all the cool kitchenalia gadgets at the flea market.
• Check out this funky kitchenalia stuff I found at the thrift store!
• Her kitchenalia collection was a reflection of her passion for cooking and entertaining.