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Definition of patinae - 2 dictionary results
pat·i·na 1   (pāt'n-ə)   
n.   pl. pat·i·nae (pāt'n-ē)
See paten.

[Medieval Latin, from Latin, plate; see paten.]
pat·i·na 2   (pāt'n-ə, pə-tē'nə)   
n.  
  1. A thin greenish layer, usually basic copper sulfate, that forms on copper or copper alloys, such as bronze, as a result of corrosion.

  2. The sheen on any surface, produced by age and use.

  3. A change in appearance produced by long-standing behavior, practice, or use: a face etched with a patina of fine lines and tiny wrinkles.


[Italian, from Latin, plate (from the incrustation on ancient metal plates and dishes); see paten.]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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