guise
UK: ɡaɪz | US: ɡaɪz
n. an external form, appearance, or manner of presentation, typically concealing the true nature of something
n. (archaic) style or fashion of dress
guise = gui<wise> + se<noun suffix>
- gui<wise>: From Old French guise (manner, fashion), derived from Frankish wīsa (way, manner), related to Old High German wīsa (wise, manner).
- se<noun suffix>: A nominal suffix in Old French, often indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word guise traces back to the Frankish wīsa, meaning "way" or "manner," which entered Old French as guise. Over time, it evolved to denote outward appearance or style, often with a connotation of disguise or deception. The connection to "wise" (originally meaning "way" or "manner") highlights how appearances can mask true intentions.
The thief entered the mansion under the guise of a delivery person.
Her cheerful guise hid the sadness she felt inside.
In medieval times, knights often fought in the guise of their lords.
The spy adopted a new guise to avoid detection.
The artist’s work critiques the guise of perfection in modern society.