semblance

[ sem-bluhns ]

noun

1. outward aspect or appearance.

   Synonyms: air, mien, exterior, aspect

2. an assumed or unreal appearance; show.

   Synonyms: seeming

3. the slightest appearance or trace.
4. a likeness, image, or copy.
5. a spectral appearance; apparition.

semblance

/ ˈsɛmbləns /

noun

1. outward appearance, esp without any inner substance or reality
2. a resemblance or copy

Word History and Origins

Origin of semblance¹

1250–1300; Middle English < Middle French, equivalent to sembl ( er ) to seem ( resemble ) + -ance -ance

Word History and Origins

Origin of semblance¹

C13: from Old French, from sembler to seem, from Latin simulāre to imitate, from similis like

Example Sentences

“And trying to be able to figure out some sort of semblance of an identity.”

From Los Angeles Times

“There wasn’t any sort of semblance of complementary football,” said McVay.

From Los Angeles Times

While the agreement has not been confirmed by either party, the cursory details reported make a semblance of sense.

From BBC

Marks eventually punched in a one-yard touchdown, giving the Trojans some semblance of offense to build on.

From Los Angeles Times

In the aftermath, students and staff go back to school and try to reestablish some semblance of normalcy — attending classes, focusing on their studies, and hanging out with their friends.

From Salon

Related Words

• pretense
• veneer