Meaning of the word smokescreen in English

What does smokescreen mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

smokescreen

US /ˈsmoʊk.skriːn/
UK /ˈsməʊk.skriːn/

Noun

1.

a cloud of smoke created to conceal military operations

Example:
The troops deployed a smokescreen to cover their retreat.
The ship laid down a thick smokescreen to evade the enemy.
2.

something that is intended to disguise or conceal the truth

Example:
His charming smile was just a smokescreen for his true intentions.
The politician's speech was a clever smokescreen to distract from the scandal.