Definition of varnishes:
(n) :
A clear or translucent liquid coating composed of resin dissolved in a solvent, which dries by evaporation to form a hard, protective, and typically glossy finish.
(n) :
Anything resembling such a coating; a glossy appearance.
(v) :
(transitive) To make something superficially or deceptively attractive
(n) :
(figuratively, by extension) A deceptively showy appearance.
(v) :
(intransitive) To apply varnish.
(v) :
(transitive) To cover up with varnish.