粉饰 literally means 'to apply powder and decorate' — combining 粉 (fěn, 'powder', historically used for whitewashing walls or faces) and 饰 (shì, 'to adorn, decorate'). Over time, it evolved into a metaphorical verb meaning to conceal flaws, problems, or unpleasant truths by making something appear more attractive, acceptable, or harmless than it really is. It carries a strong negative connotation, implying deliberate deception or avoidance of honesty.

This word is commonly used in formal or critical contexts — especially in political discourse, media analysis, business reporting, or moral commentary — to describe attempts to mask failure, corruption, incompetence, or suffering. Unlike neutral terms like 改善 (to improve), 粉饰 suggests superficiality and dishonesty: the underlying problem remains untouched, only its appearance is altered.