gilding noun (-s) Etymology: Middle English, from gerund of gilden to gild — more at gild 1. a. (1): the art or practice of overlaying or covering with gold (2): the similar use of some other yellow metal (as brass) b.: the surface so decorated c.: the material used for such decoration 2.: a superficial prettifying or embellishment < his great story needs no gilding — Burke Wilkinson >