double-faced

[ duhb-uhl-feyst ]

adjective

1. practicing duplicity; hypocritical.
2. having two faces or aspects.
3. having two usable sides, especially two sides designed to be used in the same manner:

   double-faced adhesive tape.

double-faced

adjective

1. (of textiles) having a finished nap on each side; reversible
2. insincere or deceitful

Other Words From

• dou·ble-fac·ed·ly [duhb, -, uh, l-, fey, -sid-lee, -, feyst, -], adverb
• double-faced·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of double-faced¹

First recorded in 1565–75

Example Sentences

A shrewd, double-faced individual, who was secretly a partner with Massin-Levrault the money-lender.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus she served her apprenticeship in that double-faced policy which was ever the secret motor of her life.

From Project Gutenberg

You're of the kind I should like to reward, an excellent double-faced man, Judas-like, betraying with a kiss.

From Project Gutenberg

Do you imagine the Regent is so double-faced or so foolish as to try to deceive Master Marcel?

From Project Gutenberg

"I had to do it, you know," Christopher answered, half apologizing for the double-faced rôle he had played.

From Project Gutenberg