Pretext

Pre"text

(?; 277), n. [F. prtexte, L. praetextum, fr. praetextus, p. p. of praetexere to weave before, allege as an excuse; prae before + texere to weave. See Text.] Ostensible reason or motive assigned or assumed as a color or cover for the real reason or motive; pretense; disguise.
[1913 Webster]

They suck the blood of those they depend on, under a pretext of service and kindness.

L'Estrange.
[1913 Webster]

With how much or how little pretext of reason.

Dr. H. More.
[1913 Webster]

Syn. -- Pretense; excuse; semblance; disguise; appearance. See Pretense.
[1913 Webster]

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Wed 12th December 2018