Pronunciation

/ˈwɪtˌweɪʃ/

Definitions

Noun

A whitewash refers to:

1. A thin, usually white paint made of water, lime, or other materials, used for covering or disguising surfaces (e.g., walls, errors, or corruption).
2. An attempt to deceive or cover up something by pretending it is innocent or unimportant (e.g., a whitewashed history).

Verb

To whitewash means:

1. To apply a coat of whitewash to a surface (painting).
2. To make something appear better or more acceptable than it is, often through dishonesty or concealment (e.g., whitewashing a scandal).

Adjective

Whitewashed describes something that has been painted with whitewash or is characterized by a superficial or misleading appearance.

Phrases

• “Whitewash a scandal” implies hiding or obscuring the truth.
• “A whitewashed wall” refers to a freshly painted surface.
• “The story was whitewashed by the media” suggests censorship or distortion.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The old house needed a fresh coat of whitewash to restore its original charm.”
• Verb: “The politician’s promises were seen as a mere attempt to whitewash their past misdeeds.”
• Adjective: “The committee’s report was criticized for being a whitewash of the real issues.”

Synonyms

• Conceal
• Cover up
• Spin
• Dress up
• Cleanse (in the sense of making something appear pure)

Antonyms

• Expose
• Uncover -坦白 (In Chinese, meaning to reveal the truth)