Polished until smooth and shiny; having a glossy, lustrous finish created by careful rubbing or friction.
From Old French 'brunir' (to make brown/polish) via Norman influence, past participle formed with -ed. In use since medieval times for describing polished metal and fine finishing work.
Medieval armor-smiths knew that burnished surfaces were stronger—the polishing process actually compressed the metal surface, making it more resistant to dents and cuts in battle!
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