pretext Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun something serving to conceal plans; a fictitious reason that is concocted in order to conceal the real reason
stalking-horse.
noun an artful or simulated semblance
guise; pretence; pretense.
- under the guise of friendship he betrayed them

F. prétexte, L. praetextum, fr. praetextus, p. p. of praetexere to weave before, allege as an excuse; prae before + texere to weave. See Text.

Ostensible reason or motive assigned or assumed as a color or cover for the real reason or motive; pretense; disguise.
They suck the blood of those they depend on, under a pretext of service and kindness. L'Estrange.

With how much or how little pretext of reason. Dr. H. More.
Syn. -- Pretense; excuse; semblance; disguise; appearance. See Pretense.