Meaning & Definition of Veil in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: A piece of fine material worn by women to protect or conceal the face.

  Example Sentence: The bride wore a delicate lace veil.

• Definition: Something that conceals, disguises, or obscures.

  Example Sentence: A veil of secrecy hangs over the negotiations.

• Definition: To cover or conceal something.

  Example Sentence: They veiled the truth from us.

• Definition: To provide a protective covering.

  Example Sentence: The fog veiled the city in mystery.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English: from Old French 'veile', from Latin 'velum' which means 'a covering, curtain'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• to lift the veil: to reveal or disclose something that has been hidden.
• behind the veil: in a concealed or obscure position.
• veil of ignorance: a situation in which one is deprived of certain knowledge in order to promote fairness.

Translations

• Spanish: velo

• French: voile

• German: Schleier

• Russian: вуаль (vuál')

Related Words

• shroud: A length of cloth or an enveloping garment.

• mask: A covering for all or part of the face.

• curtain: A piece of material that hangs across a window or opening.

Slang Meanings of veil

• Meaning: To hide something.

  Example Sentence: He's been veiling his true feelings lately.

• Meaning: To obscure or confuse.

  Example Sentence: The politician attempted to veil the scandal with distractions.