Main Entry:

¹ve·neer

Pronunciation:

\və-ˈnir\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

German Furnier, from furnieren to veneer, from French fournir to furnish, equip — more at furnish

Date:

1702

1: a thin sheet of a material: as a: a layer of wood of superior value or excellent grain to be glued to an inferior wood b: any of the thin layers bonded together to form plywood c: a plastic or porcelain coating bonded to the surface of a cosmetically imperfect tooth2: a protective or ornamental facing (as of brick or stone)3: a superficial or deceptively attractive appearance, display, or effect : facade, gloss <a veneer of tolerance>