From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englisha veneer of politeness/sophistication etca veneer of politeness/sophistication etcformal behaviour that hides someone’s real character or feelings A thin veneer of politeness hid Lady Bride’s growing anger. → veneer
Examples from the Corpus
thin veneer• By this he means acquiring a thin veneer of knowledge to mask his corruption.• Above that is a thin veneer of hard cases, who continue offending into their twenties.• A thin veneer of cork is bonded of a painted backing shows through in places to create a two-colour finish.• I was afraid alcohol would eat through the thin veneer of self-control.• Under this thin veneer of modesty lies a monster of greed. 