pretext

Definition of Pretext in English :

1. pretext, stalking-horse

something serving to conceal plans; a fictitious reason that is concocted in order to conceal the real reason

an artful or simulated semblance

Example Sentences:
'under the guise of friendship he betrayed them'

WordNet Lexical Database for English. Princeton University. 2010.

Pretext

noun

1.

a fictitious reason given in order to conceal the real one

2.

a specious excuse; pretence

noun

1.

a false reason or motive put forth to hide the real one; excuse

2.

a cover-up; front

n.

A reason or excuse given to hide the real reason for something.