patina

Universal Words noun [usuallysing.] 1 a green, black or brown layer that forms on the surface of some metals: The bronze statue had acquired a hard green patina with age. 2 a thin layer that forms on other materials; the shiny surface that develops on wood or leather when it is polished: The furniture was old, with the shiny patina of frequent polishing. * (figurative) He looked relaxed and elegant and had the patina of success.