veil
UK: veɪl | US: veɪl
n. a piece of fine material worn to cover the face or head, often for protection or concealment
n. something that obscures, disguises, or screens
vt. to cover or conceal with or as if with a veil
The word "veil" traces back to Latin velum, which referred to a covering, curtain, or even a sail (as sails "cover" the wind). Through Old French veile, it entered Middle English as "veil," retaining its core idea of concealment or protection. The evolution reflects a shift from physical coverings (like sails) to symbolic or decorative ones (like face veils).
She wore a delicate lace veil on her wedding day.
The mountains were hidden behind a veil of mist.
He tried to veil his disappointment with a smile.
The truth was veiled in layers of deception.
The dancer’s movements were veiled in mystery.