window dressing

Definition of window dressingnext
as in facade
a deceptively attractive external appearance the crime-does-not-pay moralizing is just window dressing for nasty hard-boiled stories

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of window dressing For years, the large-scale cannabis industry has treated aroma like window dressing — something nice to have, but not exactly essential. Sara Payan, Rolling Stone, 25 Feb. 2026 Skeptics may claim this as window dressing for strategic global ambitions. Kerry E. Ratigan, The Conversation, 15 Jan. 2026 Against Seattle, Shanahan’s trademark pre-snap window dressing meant absolutely nothing. Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 6 Jan. 2026 Artistic Vision Put to Work Cohen’s artistic vision isn’t just aesthetic window dressing. Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 12 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for window dressing
Recent Examples of Synonyms for window dressing
facade
Noun
  • Tarps continue to cover portions of the facade where the name had been displayed.
    Rena Rowe, The Washington Examiner, 17 June 2026
  • Sign on facade at shoe company Allbirds, Walnut Creek, California, August 25, 2025.
    Samantha Subin, CNBC, 17 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Window dressing.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/window%20dressing. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.

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