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 tooth
2 : 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>