gilt

Universal Words noun 1 [U] a thin layer of gold, or sth like gold that is used on a surface for decoration: gilt buttons / lettering 2 (gilts) [pl.] (BrE, finance) gilt-edged INVESTMENTS 3 [C] (especially AmE) a young female pig IDIOMS take the gilt off the gingerbread (BrE) to do or be sth that makes a situation or ACHIEVEMENT less attractive or impressive