Definition

Noun: 1. A small Asian tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum, formerly Rhus verniciflua) that yields a toxic sap from which lacquer is obtained. 2. A large tree native to southeastern Asia (Aleurites moluccanus, also known as the candlenut tree) whose nuts yield an oil used in varnishes and whose kernels can be strung together and burned as candles.

Usage Examples

• Sense 1 (Lacquer source):
  • The artisans collected sap from the varnish tree to make traditional lacquerware.
  • The toxic exudate of the varnish tree must be handled with extreme care.
• Sense 2 (Candlenut tree):
  • The oil extracted from the nuts of the varnish tree is a key ingredient in some wood varnishes.
  • In traditional ceremonies, they used candles made from kernels of the varnish tree.

Advanced Usage

• The term "varnish tree" is a common name that refers to two distinct botanical species, linked by their historical use in producing protective coatings or illuminants.
• In botanical and trade contexts, the Latin names ( and ) are often used to avoid confusion.

Variants and Related Words

• Lacquer tree: A direct synonym for the first sense ().
• Candlenut tree: A common name for the second sense ().
• Tung tree (): Another tree whose oil is used in varnishes and finishes, sometimes confused with the "varnish tree."

Synonyms

• For sense 1: Lacquer tree, Japanese lacquer tree.
• For sense 2: Candlenut, Indian walnut, Kukui nut tree (in Hawaii).

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To varnish the truth: This idiom uses "varnish" metaphorically, meaning to make something appear better than it is. It is related to the concept of applying a glossy, deceptive coating, akin to the product from the varnish tree.
  • His report was an attempt to varnish the truth about the project's failures.

Noun

1. small Asiatic tree yielding a toxic exudate from which lacquer is obtained
2. large tree native to southeastern Asia; the nuts yield oil used in varnishes; nut kernels strung together are used locally as candles