n. & v.
--n.
1. a a thin covering of fine wood or other surface material applied to a coarser wood. b a layer in plywood.
2 (often foll. by of) a deceptive outward appearance of a good quality etc.
--v.tr.
1. apply a veneer to (wood, furniture, etc.).
2 disguise (an unattractive character etc.) with a more attractive manner etc.
Etymology: earlier fineer f. G furni(e)ren f. OF fournir FURNISH