Pronunciation: [ɡˈɪldz] (IPA) 
The word "gilds" is spelled with a silent "d" at the end. It is pronounced as /ɡɪldz/ with the "g" sound similar to the one in "go" and the "i" sound like in "in". The "l" is pronounced with the tip of the tongue touching the upper front teeth, and followed by a voiced "z" sound represented by the letter "s". The word refers to the act of covering something with a thin layer of gold.
The term "gilds" refers to the act of applying a thin layer of gold or a gold-colored substance onto an object, typically for decorative purposes. Derived from the old English word "gyldan," meaning "to cover in gold," gilding has been utilized for centuries to enhance the appearance and value of various surfaces.
Gilding is commonly achieved through the application of gold leaf, a delicate sheet of gold, or using a substance called gilt paint, which mimics the appearance of gold. The process often involves meticulously cleaning and preparing the surface to ensure proper adhesion. The gold leaf or gilt paint is then carefully applied and smoothed onto the object's surface, using a variety of specialized tools such as brushes, knives, or burnishing tools. Gilding can be used on a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, stone, and even paper.
Throughout history, gilding has been employed in various artistic and architectural contexts. It can be found in the embellishment of religious artifacts, picture frames, sculptures, jewelry, manuscripts, furniture, and architectural elements. Gilding aims to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal, impart a sense of luxury and opulence, and showcase the reflective properties of gold. The technique requires a high level of skill, precision, and craftsmanship to achieve a smooth and flawless gilded surface. In addition to its decorative function, gilding can also serve as a protective layer and improve the longevity of the object.
The word "gilds" is a verb derived from the noun "guild". The noun "guild" comes from Old English "gild" or "gyld", which means "payment, tribute, or offer". This Old English word is derived from Old Norse "gildi" meaning "guild, brotherhood" and ultimately from the Proto-Germanic word "geldiz", meaning "payment, guild".
The concept of a guild originated in medieval Europe as an association of craftspeople or merchants who shared common interests and goals. The term eventually came to represent a group of people engaged in a particular trade or profession, working together to protect their interests and preserve certain standards and practices.
Over time, the verb form "gilds" evolved from the noun "guild" to mean the act of joining or forming a guild or associating oneself with a particular group or organization.
