brightwork

noun

bright·​work ˈbrīt-ˌwərk How to pronounce brightwork (audio)
1
: polished or plated metalwork
2
: varnished woodwork on a boat

Examples of brightwork in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The paint is deep (choose glossy red or black), and is offset by minimal but tasteful brightwork around the gas tank and radiator cowls. — William Roberson, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2025 For an outfit with very little use for chrome, Honda has a way with brightwork; note the crystal-like cuts of the mirrors within the halogen headlights. — Larry Griffin, Car and Driver, 15 June 2023 Substantial, intricate chrome brightwork details the lower portions of the fascia. — Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025 Everything from bulkhead materials to dividers to trim materials to brightwork must be specified, which can lead to a domino effect of aesthetic choices. — Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 2 July 2023 See All Example Sentences for brightwork

Word History

First Known Use

1839, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of brightwork was in 1839

Rhymes for brightwork

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Browse Nearby Words

bright turquoise green
brightwork
Brigit
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Brightwork.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/brightwork. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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