VENEER  , a thin layer of

wood, ivory, pearl or other material of high decorative value fixed to a poorer surface by glue or other adhesive to improve its appearance . Wood veneers are exceedingly common: only the best woods are used and the layer may be as thin as paper—a circumstance due to improvements in the machinery for cutting the logs . The surface to which the veneer is to be attached is prepared perfectly smooth, a film of glue applied, and then the veneer laid on . It is now ironed perfectly flat, all superfluous glue being pressed out, and then allowed to dry in a press . The surface is now ready for polishing .