whitewash
word
Definition
To paint something with a white liquid made from lime and water. It is also used figuratively to mean covering up mistakes, wrongdoing, or unpleasant facts to make things look better.
Usage & Nuances
'Whitewash' is literal for painting, but more often used figuratively. Common in news and criticism: 'whitewash a scandal.' Formal/neutral. Not to confuse with 'cover up' (broader), though often similar. Sports: a 'whitewash' can also mean a complete win with no losses.
Example Sentences
They decided to whitewash the old fence.
basic
The report tried to whitewash the company's mistakes.
basic
They whitewashed the wall before painting it blue.
basic
The government tried to whitewash the scandal in the media.
natural
They won the match in a complete whitewash.
natural
Critics said the movie was an attempt to whitewash history.
natural