sugarcoat

verb

sug·​ar·​coat ˈshu̇-gər-ˌkōt How to pronounce sugarcoat (audio)
sugarcoated; sugarcoating; sugarcoats
Synonyms of sugarcoatnext

transitive verb

1
: to coat with sugar
2
: to make superficially attractive or palatable

Examples of sugarcoat in a Sentence

She has very strong opinions, and she doesn't try to sugarcoat them.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One in four jobs at risk The bank isn’t sugarcoating AI’s reach. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 4 May 2026 When asked if this team is good enough to get to the next level, Banchero didn’t sugarcoat it after the Game 7 loss to the Pistons. Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 May 2026 There’s no way to sugarcoat it. Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 4 May 2026 Officials didn’t sugarcoat the fact that much more needs to be done. Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sugarcoat

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from sugarcoated

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sugarcoat was in 1858

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sugarcoat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sugarcoat. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

sugarcoat

verb
sug·​ar·​coat ˌshu̇g-ər-ˈkōt How to pronounce sugarcoat (audio)
: to coat with or as if with sugar

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