verb
dissimulate
dih-SIM-yuh-layt/dɪˈsɪmjuleɪt/
To hide true feelings, motives, or beliefs by pretending.
The chess player dissimulates his nervousness with a calm expression and a hidden clenched hand.
Etymology
Simulare concerns making an appearance or likeness; with dis-, the compound means disguising reality under a different appearance. Dissimulating one's feelings therefore means hiding them behind a misleading outward show.
In context
He rubbed his hands, he laughed with that inward mirth which makes the countenance beam; he was unable to dissimulate his joy, although he endeavored at moments to compose himself.
More examples
- He dissimulated his anger behind a polite reply.
- There is no need to dissimulate; tell me how you feel.
- They are dissimulating their real motives by pretending to help.
Forms
dissimulate · dissimulates · dissimulated · dissimulating
dissimulation noun — Concealment of true feelings or motives through pretense.