pretext
noun
1. something serving to conceal plans; a fictitious reason that is concocted in order to conceal the real reason
Definition categories: communication, dissembling, feigning, pretence, pretense
2. an artful or simulated semblance
Similar word(s): guise, pretence, pretense
Definition categories: attribute, color, colour, gloss, semblance
Sentences with pretext as a noun:
- The reporter called the company on the pretext of trying to resolve a consumer complaint.
verb
1. To employ a pretext, which involves using a false or contrived purpose for soliciting the gain of something else.
- The spy obtained his phone records using possibly-illegal pretexting methods.