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veneer

noun

/vɪˈnɪə/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of veneer

A thin layer of material applied to the surface of an object to conceal or protect it.
"The veneer on the antique table was beautifully polished."

Detailed meaning of veneer

In the context of woodworking, a veneer is a thin layer of wood that is applied to the surface of a piece of furniture, such as a table or cabinet, to give it the appearance of being made from a more expensive wood or to cover up any imperfections in the original wood. Veneers can also be made from other materials, such as marble or plastic, and are often used in construction and interior design to add a decorative touch to a surface. They can be applied to walls, floors, and other surfaces, and are often used in conjunction with other materials such as paint or tile.

Example sentences containing veneer

1. She suspected that his smile was just a veneer hiding his true feelings.
2. The veneer on the kitchen cabinets was starting to peel.
3. The politician's charm was nothing more than a thin veneer.
4. The artist carefully applied a veneer of gold leaf to the frame.
5. The expensive car had a veneer of luxury that was hard to ignore.
6. Beneath his confident veneer, he was actually quite nervous.

History and etymology of veneer

The noun 'veneer' has its roots in Old French, where it was known as 'fournir,' meaning 'to furnish' or 'to provide.' Over time, it evolved into 'fournir de bois,' which translates to 'to furnish with wood.' In English, 'fournir de bois' transformed into 'fineer' and later 'veneer.' The etymology of 'veneer' reflects the historical use of thin layers of wood to furnish or provide an attractive surface for furniture and decorative objects. Nowadays, it denotes any thin layer of material applied to the surface of an object, often for decorative purposes or to conceal the underlying structure, enhancing its appearance and protecting it from damage.

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Further usage examples of veneer

1. The old building had a weathered veneer that told a story of its history.
2. The veneer on the door was scratched and needed refinishing.
3. She had a veneer of confidence, but deep down she was insecure.
4. The veneer of professionalism cracked when he lost his temper.
5. She could see through the veneer of his excuses.
6. The veneer of the conference room table had a rich, dark finish.
7. The veneer of the new shopping mall gave it a modern look.
8. The detective peeled back the veneer of secrecy to reveal the truth.
9. The salesman's friendly veneer was all part of his pitch.
10. The antique clock had an intricate veneer of inlaid wood.
11. The veneer on the floors needed to be sanded and refinished.
12. Her veneer of indifference couldn't hide her true emotions.
13. The old book had a veneer of dust from years of neglect.
14. The corporate office had a sterile veneer that lacked personality.
15. The restaurant had a rustic veneer with wooden beams and stone walls.
16. The veneer of the luxury yacht was gleaming in the sunlight.
17. He applied a veneer of varnish to protect the wood.
18. The veneer on the guitar gave it a warm and inviting tone.
19. Underneath the veneer of success, he struggled with self-doubt.