Synonyms: guise, pretence, pretense, pretext
Definition: an artful or simulated semblance
Usage: under the guise of friendship he betrayed them
Similar words: gloss, semblance, color, colour
Definition: an outward or token appearance or form that is deliberately misleading
Usage: he hoped his claims would have a semblance of authenticity; he tried to give his falsehood the gloss of moral sanction; the situation soon took on a different color
Synonyms: pretext, stalking-horse
Definition: something serving to conceal plans; a fictitious reason that is concocted in order to conceal the real reason
Similar words: feigning, dissembling, pretence, pretense
Definition: pretending with intention to deceive