gloss

(noun, verb)

noun

1. an explanation or definition of an obscure word in a text

Similar word(s): rubric

Definition categories: communication, account, explanation

2. an alphabetical list of technical terms in some specialized field of knowledge; usually published as an appendix to a text on that field

Similar word(s): glossary

Definition categories: communication, wordbook

3. the property of being smooth and shiny

Similar word(s): burnish, glossiness, polish

Definition categories: attribute, smoothness, effulgence, radiance, radiancy, refulgence, refulgency, shine

4. an outward or token appearance or form that is deliberately misleading

- he tried to give his falsehood the gloss of moral sanction

Similar word(s): color, colour, semblance

Definition categories: attribute, appearance

verb

1. give a shine or gloss to, usually by rubbing

Definition categories: creation, polish, shine, smooth, smoothen

2. provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases

Similar word(s): annotate, comment

Definition categories: communication, interpret, rede

3. provide an interlinear translation of a word or phrase

Definition categories: communication, interpret, render, translate

4. give a deceptive explanation or excuse for

Similar word(s): color, colour

Definition categories: communication, apologise, apologize, excuse, rationalise, rationalize