PRETEXT

pretext. pretext, an excuse, colour, or pretence

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pretext. Pretext, n. a pretense, excuse, cloke, show

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Pre″text (?; 277), n. [[F. prétexte, 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. They suck the blood of those they depend on, under a pretext of service and kindness. L'Estrange. With how much or how little pretext of reason. Dr. H. More. Syn. — Pretense; excuse; semblance; disguise; appearance. See Pretense.