GLOSS

n. & v. --n. 1 a an explanatory word or phrase inserted between the lines or in the margin of a text. b a comment, explanation, interpretation, or paraphrase. 2 a misrepresentation of another's words. 3 a a glossary. b an interlinear translation or annotation. --v. 1 tr. a add a gloss or glosses to (a text, word, etc.). b read a different sense into; explain away. 2 intr. (often foll. by on) make (esp. unfavourable) comments. 3 intr. write or introduce glosses. øøglosser n. [alt. of GLOZE after med.L glossa]