I hide a smile, I guard a gasp, I dress for balls or stop a rasp. On stage I'm drama, in clinics I task. What slips on quick?

Before the answer come bay, car, church, stained glass, shop, storm, and bedroom. After the answer come sill, shade, washer, seat, dressing, tint, treatment, and pane. Can you determine the common word that helps make the world visible?

With strings in hand, I charm the ear, I sing and I weep without a tear. Hands awaken my hidden voice, and through my chords I speak with choice.

I’m not born of clouds, yet I choke the sky. I turn sunlight sick and cities gray. What am I?

It can be a noun, a holder of things. It can be a verb, for gossiping. It can describe some things in the kitchen, Or slang for a girl that’s too hot to mention.