Idiom
mutton dressed as lamb
Meanings
An older person, especially a woman, dressed in a very youthful style in a way that seems forced or unflattering.
Something outdated or low-quality that has been given a superficial makeover to seem new, modern, or better than it really is.
Definition
Something that is old or unsuitable but is made to look younger or more appealing in a way that seems unconvincing.
“Mutton dressed as lamb” describes a person or thing that is not young or new, but is presented as if it were. It often suggests that the attempt looks unnatural, overly showy, or not believable. The idiom is usually critical and commonly refers to an older person trying to dress much younger.
Examples
- That neon mini dress on her looks like mutton dressed as lamb.
- The rebranded app is still mutton dressed as lamb under the glossy design.
- His attempt to seem cool felt like mutton dressed as lamb.
- They renovated the lobby, but the hotel is still mutton dressed as lamb.
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