semblance
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sem·blance

noun \ˈsem-blən(t)s\

Definition of SEMBLANCE

1
a : outward and often specious appearance or show : form <wrapped in a semblance of composure — Harry Hervey>
b : modicum <has been struggling to get some semblance of justice for his people — Bayard Rustin>
3
a : a phantasmal form : apparition
b : image, likeness
4
: actual or apparent resemblance <her story bears some semblance to the truth>

Examples of SEMBLANCE

  1. <tried to project some semblance of confidence even though public speaking terrified her>
  2. <a used-car dealer with only a semblance of honesty>

Origin of SEMBLANCE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from sembler to be like, seem — more at resemble
First Known Use: 14th century

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