white-lying
verb (present participle)UK /ˈwaɪtˌlaɪɪŋ/
US /ˈwaɪtˌlaɪɪŋ/
Telling a small, harmless lie to be polite or to keep someone from feeling bad.
She was white-lying when she said she loved his new haircut.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The act of telling a minor, socially acceptable untruth.
White-lying is common when someone asks if you like their cooking.
3. Softening the truth to spare someone's feelings.
He was white-lying about how tired he felt so she wouldn't worry.
4. Making a small excuse to avoid hurting or inconveniencing others.
White-lying about being busy let her skip the party politely.