'furbish' originates from Middle English, specifically from forms such as 'forbysshen' or 'forbishen', where the prefix 'for-' served as an intensifier and the root related to polishing or cleaning.

'furbish' changed from Middle English forms (e.g. 'forbysshen'/'forbishen') and eventually became the modern English word 'furbish'.

Initially it meant 'to make bright or to polish,' and over time the sense broadened to include 'restore' or 'renovate' in addition to simple polishing.