Glosses

In its most common usage, 'glosses' (plural of 'gloss') refers to brief explanatory notes or commentaries appended to a text. These notes serve to clarify meaning, provide translations, or offer interpretations of difficult or obscure words, phrases, or concepts. They can appear in the margins of the text (marginal glosses) or at the bottom of the page (footnotes), or at the end of a chapter or book. Additionally, 'glosses' can also pertain to a superficial or misleading appearance, a deceptively attractive exterior that hides a less desirable reality.

Glosses meaning with examples

• The ancient manuscript was riddled with marginal glosses in a different hand, helping modern scholars understand the text's original meaning and providing insight into its reception across time. The scribes made the meaning more accessible.
• Her presentation included several key concepts highlighted, with extensive footnotes providing detailed glosses on the terminology and historical context to enrich the audience's understanding. The additions helped the listeners grasp the core points.
• He was asked to contribute glosses of the text for a new translation, offering concise definitions and explanations of archaic vocabulary, enabling the modern reader to better comprehend the classic work. The annotations made the old text understandable.
• The politician’s polished speeches were merely glosses, carefully constructed to deflect criticism and conceal the lack of substance behind his policies. His words hid the issues at hand.
• The sleek design of the product was nothing more than a superficial gloss, masking its poor internal components and its tendency to break down shortly after purchase. The design was deceptive.