gloss
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