"Gilt" is an adjective that means covered with gold. It may also refer to something that is the color gold.
As a noun, "gilt" simply means "gold" or something that resembles gold. And, it can refer to superficial beauty or brilliance.
"Gilt" can be a slang term for money. It is also the term for certain types of bonds issued by the British government. And, rarely, a "gilt" is a young female swine.
"Gilt" comes from the Middle English word "gilden." And, depending on its usage, it dates back to either the 14th or 15th century.
Other forms of "gilt" are "gild," "gilded," "gilden" and "gilding."
Synonyms for "gilt" include golden, lustrous, gaudy and glittering. Antonyms include plain and unadorned.