gloss
UK: ɡlɒs | US: ɡlɑːs
n. a superficial shine or luster on a surface
n. a deceptively attractive appearance or explanation
vt. to give a shiny surface to; to make superficially attractive
The word "gloss" traces back to Old Norse glossi, meaning "flame" or "blaze," which metaphorically evolved to describe brightness or shine. By the 16th century, it acquired the figurative sense of a superficial polish—both literal (shiny surfaces) and metaphorical (simplified or deceptive explanations). The dual meaning reflects the word’s journey from physical radiance to abstract attractiveness.
The table had a smooth gloss after being polished.
His speech was full of gloss, hiding the lack of real solutions.
She used a clear varnish to gloss the wooden sculpture.
The magazine’s article gave a gloss to the celebrity’s controversial past.
Don’t gloss over the details—address the problem directly.