gold-plated

== English == === Alternative forms === goldplated, gold plated === Pronunciation === (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˌɡəʊldˈpleɪtɪd/ (US) IPA(key): /ˌɡoʊldˈpleɪtɪd/ Rhymes: -eɪtɪd === Adjective === gold-plated (not comparable) Having a thin layer of gold applied to the surface, often by electrolysis. (of projects, systems, etc.) Incorporating costly or otherwise excessive features or refinements unnecessarily; overengineered. (of laws, regulations, etc.) Embellished to excess, especially so as to be stifling, or rigid and inflexible. ==== Usage notes ==== The sense relating to laws and regulations is particularly used in relation to European Union directives ==== Related terms ==== gold plate ==== Translations ==== === Verb === gold-plated simple past and past participle of gold-plate ==== See also ==== gild the lily