veneer
UK: vɪˈnɪə | US: vəˈnɪr
n. a thin decorative layer of fine wood or other material applied to a coarser base
n. a superficial appearance or show designed to impress
vt. to cover with a veneer
The word "veneer" traces back to German Furnier (from furnieren, meaning "to cover with a veneer"), which itself derives from Old French fournir ("to furnish"). The Latin root venire ("to come") is embedded in the Germanic adaptation, reflecting the idea of a surface layer "coming over" a base material. Over time, the term evolved to denote both the physical application of thin layers and metaphorical superficiality.
The cabinet was made of plywood with an oak veneer.
His politeness was just a veneer hiding his arrogance.
They decided to veneer the table with mahogany for a luxurious finish.
Beneath the veneer of sophistication, the event felt chaotic.
The antique dresser had lost much of its original veneer over the years.