Facade

/fəˈsɑːd/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the front of a building, especially a decorative one.

The theatre's ornate facade drew the attention of all passersby.

a deceptive outward appearance; a misrepresentation.

Despite her cheerful facade, she was struggling with deep sadness inside.

a superficial appearance or illusion of something.

Their company maintained a facade of success, even though they were facing financial difficulties.

From French facade, from facere, meaning 'to do or make'.

put up a facade

To create a deceptive appearance or act in a way that hides one's true feelings.

behind the facade

Referring to the hidden truth beneath an outwardly appealing appearance.

maintaining a facade

To continue presenting an outward appearance that is not genuine.

disguise

To change or hide the appearance of something.

illusion

A false idea or belief; something that deceives.

veneer

A thin layer of superficial material, often used to cover something of lesser quality.

Putting on a front

He was really putting on a facade at the party; nobody knew he felt lonely.

Playing a role

She’s just playing a facade; her real self is entirely different.