whitewash
Pronunciation
Quick answer
An attempt to hide mistakes or unpleasant facts, especially in an official report or statement.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
cover-up
Usage notes
The word comes from the white paint once used to cover dirty walls, and the figurative sense of hiding wrongdoing grew out of that image.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Critics called the inquiry a _____ designed to protect the company's reputation."
Answer: whitewash
In your own words, what does "whitewash" mean?
An attempt to hide mistakes or unpleasant facts, especially in an official report or statement.
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