• Eyewash

    Origin

    eye + wash

    Full definition of eyewash

    Noun

    eyewash

    (usually uncountable; plural eyewashes)
    1. (countable, uncountable) A soothing medicated lotion for the eyes
    2. (uncountable, slang) nonsense; flattery; pretentiousness.
    3. (uncountable, slang) A means of creating a deceptively favourable impression of something or someone; something for appearance only.
      • 1960, P. G. Wodehouse, Jeeves in the Offing, chapter XITalking of being eaten by dogs, there's a dachshund at Brinkley who when you first meet him will give you the impression that he plans to convert you into a light snack between his regular meals. Pay no attention. It's all eyewash. ... He wouldn't hurt a fly, but he has to put up a front because his name's Poppet. One can readily appreciate that when a dog hears himself addressed day in and day out as Poppet, he feels he must throw his weight about. His self-respect demands it.

    Synonyms

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