window dressing

American  

noun

1. the art, act, or technique of trimming the display windows of a store.

2. misrepresentation of something, so as to give a favorable impression.

   The company's list of assets included a great deal of window dressing.

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window-dressing British  

noun

1. the ornamentation of shop windows, designed to attract customers

2. the pleasant, showy, or false aspect of an idea, policy, etc, which is stressed to conceal the real or unpleasant nature; façade

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Etymology

Origin of window dressing

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

In “Undertone,” all of the horror tropes are window dressing — elements to stimulate the eye while Tuason plays with the ear.

From Salon • Mar. 15, 2026

That meant Hany Mukhtar's strike in the 11th and final minute of stoppage time was nothing but window dressing.

From Barron's • Oct. 25, 2025

I prepared myself for an uninspiring visit where the art was mere window dressing to sell window dressings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 3, 2025

That 1-percenter healthy living also comes with its fair share of window dressing.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 8, 2024

I was window dressing in case someone came by.

From "Amal Unbound" by Aisha Saeed