vergolden
to gild
To cover something with a thin layer of gold.
EXAMPLE
Der Juwelier hat den Silberring für sie vergoldet.
The jeweler gilded the silver ring for her.
vergolden
to gild
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Meanings
vergolden
to gild
In a figurative sense, to embellish something or present it as more valuable than it actually is.
EXAMPLE
In seinen Erinnerungen versucht er, die weniger ruhmreichen Episoden seines Lebens zu vergolden.
In his memories, he tries to gild the less glorious episodes of his life.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Vergolden' (to gild) is an inseparable verb formed according to the pattern 'ver- + noun/adjective + -en'. It consists of the prefix 'ver-' and the noun 'Gold' (gold) and literally means 'to provide something with gold'.
EXAMPLE
Er ließ die alte Uhr seiner Großmutter neu vergolden.
He had his grandmother's old watch gilded again.
Context clue
You can recognize the figurative meaning when something abstract is 'vergoldet' (gilded), something that cannot really be covered with gold. This includes, for example, memories, the past, or words.
EXAMPLE
In seiner Autobiografie vergoldet er seine Jugendzeit und lässt alles Negative weg.
In his autobiography, he gilds his youth and leaves out everything negative.
Typical objects
In the literal meaning, 'vergolden' (to gild) is used for objects that you want to decorate or enhance. Typical objects are jewelry (rings, necklaces), cutlery, or picture frames.
EXAMPLE
Sie möchte ihren silbernen Armreif vergolden lassen.
She wants to have her silver bangle gilded.
Compare with
vergolden vs aufwerten
to upgrade / revalue
Both words can express that something appears more valuable or better. „Aufwerten“ means to genuinely increase the value, quality, or reputation of something. „Vergolden“, on the other hand, can also mean presenting something in a flattering way so that it seems more valuable than it is. Use „aufwerten“ for a real improvement and „vergolden“ for exaggeration.
vergolden
Der Bericht vergoldete den Erfolg des Projekts und verschwieg seine großen Probleme.
The report gilded the project's success and concealed its major problems.
aufwerten
Die Renovierung wertete den alten Eingangsbereich deutlich auf.
The renovation significantly upgraded the old entrance area.
In real life
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