WHITEWASHED Meaning and
Definition
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Whitewashed is an adjective that pertains to the act of covering or painting a surface with a white or pale-colored substance, such as lime or chalk mixed with water. This process of whitewashing is commonly done to brighten, clean, or sanitize walls, fences, or other structures by applying a thin layer of a white coating.
Further extending to a metaphorical context, whitewashed refers to the deliberate attempt to conceal, gloss over, or portray something or someone in a more favorable or innocent light. It is an act of obscuring or minimizing negative aspects, often associated with a lack of transparency, honesty, or authenticity. This term particularly applies to instances where a narrative, historical account, or portrayal has been modified or manipulated to present a distorted or biased version of events or individuals involved.
In a cultural context, whitewashing can refer to the practice of casting white actors to play characters originally written as people of different races or ethnicities. This phenomena garners criticism for overlooking or excluding opportunities for actors from underrepresented backgrounds, contributing to an overall lack of diversity and perpetuating stereotypes.
Overall, whitewashed encompasses both literal and figurative meanings, encompassing the act of coating with white as well as the intentional misrepresentation or concealment of information or identities.
Common Misspellings for WHITEWASHED
Etymology of WHITEWASHED
The word "whitewashed" is derived from the combination of two words: "white" and "wash".
The term "white" comes from the Old English word "hwit", which has Germanic roots. It has been used in various forms throughout different Germanic languages.
The word "wash" originates from the Old English word "wæscan", related to the German word "waschen" and the Dutch word "wassen", all meaning "to cleanse or clean".
When combined, "whitewash" refers to the act of coating or covering something with whitewash, a mixture typically made from lime and water, used for whitening walls, fences, or other surfaces. Thus, "whitewashed" metaphorically refers to the act of covering up, concealing, or glossing over something, often with the intention of creating a false impression or erasing undesirable aspects.
Similar spelling words for WHITEWASHED
Conjugate verb Whitewashed
CONDITIONAL
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would whitewash
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FUTURE
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will whitewash
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FUTURE PERFECT
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will have whitewashed
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PAST
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whitewashed
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PAST PERFECT
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had whitewashed
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PRESENT
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whitewash
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whitewash
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whitewashes
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PRESENT PERFECT
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have whitewashed
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have whitewashed
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I
am whitewashing
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are whitewashing
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are whitewashing
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was whitewashing
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were whitewashing
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were whitewashing
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will be whitewashing
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will be whitewashing
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have been whitewashing
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have been whitewashing
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had been whitewashing
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had been whitewashing
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had been whitewashing
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will have been whitewashing
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will have been whitewashing
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would have whitewashed
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would be whitewashing
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would be whitewashing
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would have been whitewashing
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would have been whitewashing
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