Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Deceitful or hypocritical: Characterized by pretending to have one set of feelings or intentions while acting under the influence of another; insincere and two-faced.
   • Having two usable sides: (Of fabrics or materials) having finished surfaces or faces on both sides.

Usage and Examples

• Adjective (Deceitful):
  • He was exposed as a double-faced politician who promised tax cuts but planned to raise them.
  • I can't trust her; her double-faced compliments are always followed by criticism behind my back.
• Adjective (Fabric):
  • The blanket is made from a warm, double-faced wool, so either side can be used as the top.
  • Damask is a classic example of a double-faced fabric with intricate patterns visible on both surfaces.

Advanced Usage

• In a metaphorical sense: Used to describe objects, systems, or concepts that have two opposing aspects or functions.
  • The agreement was a double-faced document, promoting peace publicly while secretly outlining plans for escalation.
• Literary/Formal Context: Often used in formal accusations or character descriptions to emphasize betrayal.
  • The historian described the informant as a double-faced villain in the court's history.

Variants and Related Words

• Double-dealing (adj/n): Engaging in deceitful or treacherous behavior. (e.g., )
• Two-faced (adj): Closely synonymous with the deceitful meaning of 'double-faced,' implying duplicity. (e.g., )
• Reversible (adj): Related to the fabric meaning, describing something that can be used with either side out. (e.g., )

Synonyms

• Deceitful: Acting to mislead or conceal the truth.
• Duplicitous: Deceitful in a more calculated or deliberate manner.
• Hypocritical: Behaving in a way that suggests one has higher standards or beliefs than is the case.
• Janus-faced: (Formal/literary) Having two contrasting aspects, often referring to deceit.

Antonyms

• Genuine: Truly what something is said to be; authentic.
• Sincere: Free from pretense or deceit; proceeding from genuine feelings.
• Honest: Truthful and straightforward.
• Single-faced: (For fabric) Having only one finished or usable side.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• To wear two faces: To be deceitful or hypocritical. (Similar in meaning to the adjective's first sense).
  • In the business, he was known to wear two faces, charming clients while sabotaging competitors.
• A double-edged sword: Something having both positive and negative consequences. (Note: This idiom is related in structure but differs in meaning, focusing on mixed effects rather than deceit).

Adjective

1. marked by deliberate deceptiveness especially by pretending one set of feelings and acting under the influence of another
   • she was a deceitful scheming little thing- Israel Zangwill
   • a double-dealing double agent
   • a double-faced infernal traitor and schemer- W.M.Thackeray
2. (of fabrics) having faces on both sides
   • damask is a double-faced fabric