Guise
/ɡaɪz/noun
A form, appearance, or manner used to conceal the true nature of something.
Did you know?The word entered English through Old French and is tied to the idea of outward appearance or manner, which is why it still powers phrases like “in the guise of” when something is disguised behind a surface.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*wīsaz
“wise, knowing”
Old English
OE
wīs
“wise, prudent, knowing”
Old French
OF
guise
“manner, fashion, appearance”
Middle English
ME
guise
“manner, way of doing or appearing”
Modern English
English
guise
“outward appearance or semblance, often deceptive”