veneer
2 synonyms for veneer, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A thin decorative layer of a finer material, usually wood, glued over a cheaper surface underneath.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use veneer
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a veneer of respectability
wood veneer
thin veneer
Etymology
From German Furnier, from furnieren ("to cover with veneer"), ultimately from Old Frankish frumjan ("to provide") — related to the English word "furnish".
Full origin of veneer →Frequently asked questions
What does “veneer” mean?
The word “veneer” means a thin decorative layer of a finer material, usually wood, glued over a cheaper surface underneath. In plain terms, a thin, attractive surface layer covering something plainer, used both for actual materials and, figuratively, for a fake outward impression.
How do you pronounce “veneer”?
“Veneer” is pronounced vuh-NEER (/vəˈnɪɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “veneer” in a sentence?
Here is “veneer” used in a sentence: “The desk was made of plywood covered in an oak veneer.”
What part of speech is “veneer”?
Depending on how it is used, “veneer” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “veneer” come from?
The word “veneer” comes from German. From German Furnier, from furnieren ("to cover with veneer"), ultimately from Old Frankish frumjan ("to provide") — related to the English word "furnish".
How many meanings does “veneer” have?
“Veneer” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a thin decorative layer of a finer material, usually wood, glued over a cheaper surface underneath.
