gloss meaning and definition

GLOSS noun

Definition of gloss (noun)

1. an explanation or definition of an obscure word in a text
   • synonyms: rubric
2. an alphabetical list of technical terms in some specialized field of knowledge; usually published as an appendix to a text on that field
   • synonyms: glossary
3. the property of being smooth and shiny
   • synonyms: burnish, glossiness, polish
4. an outward or token appearance or form that is deliberately misleading
   • "he hoped his claims would have a semblance of authenticity"; "he tried to give his falsehood the gloss of moral sanction"; "the situation soon took on a different color"
   • synonyms: color, colour, semblance

GLOSS verb

Definition of gloss (verb)

1. give a shine or gloss to, usually by rubbing
2. provide interlinear explanations for words or phrases
   • "He annotated on what his teacher had written"
   • synonyms: annotate, comment
3. provide an interlinear translation of a word or phrase
4. give a deceptive explanation or excuse for
   • "color a lie"
   • synonyms: color, colour