Kosmetelised

Kosmetelised is a neologism used to describe the act or result of making something appear more attractive through cosmetic changes, rather than by improving its underlying function or structure. The term is formed from the cosmetics-related root and a suffix that echoes similar transformations in English.

Etymology and usage: The word is not widely standardized and appears mainly in analytical or critical discourse. It is used to discuss practices in urban planning, architecture, media production, and political communication where surface-level aesthetics are prioritized over substantive reforms.

Applications: In urban contexts, a district or waterfront may be described as kosmetelised if new lighting, paving, and façade treatments are applied to mask persistent housing, transport, or environmental problems. In media, photographs or videos may be kosmetelised by filters, retouching, and color grading that alter appearance beyond truthful representation.

Implications and critique: Proponents argue that aesthetic improvements can attract investment and improve user experience, while critics contend that kosmetelising can obscure inequalities and delay necessary maintenance or policy changes. The term signals tensions between form and function, authenticity and presentation.

See also: aestheticization, cosmeticization, image editing, urban beautification, gloss.