veneer vuh-NEER noun verb WS #42

a thin decorative covering of fine wood applied to a coarser wood or other material; an attractive appearance that covers or disguises someone or something's true nature or feelings; a superficial layer or facade

1. The veneer of respectability surrounding the organization crumbled when investigators uncovered evidence of widespread corruption.
2. The furniture maker applied a thin veneer of cherry wood to create an elegant finish on the dining table.
3. Her veneer of confidence masked deep insecurities that she had struggled with since childhood.
4. Behind his veneer of politeness lay a calculating and ruthless businessman who would stop at nothing to succeed.
5. The antique desk was made of pine but covered with a beautiful mahogany veneer that gave it an expensive appearance.

to cover with a veneer; to disguise with a superficially attractive appearance

1. The carpenter will veneer the cabinet doors with premium walnut to match the rest of the kitchen.
2. Politicians often veneer their controversial policies with appealing rhetoric to make them more palatable to voters.
3. The decorator chose to veneer the walls with thin sheets of bamboo for an eco-friendly and modern look.
4. She learned to veneer her true feelings with a smile, never letting others see her pain.
5. The company tried to veneer its poor safety record with expensive public relations campaigns and glossy brochures.