1 pretending, make-believe.
2 a a pretext or excuse (on the slightest pretence). b a false show of intentions or motives (under the pretence of friendship; under false pretences).
3 (foll. by to) a claim, esp. a false or ambitious one (has no pretence to any great talent).
4 a affectation, display. b pretentiousness, ostentation (stripped of all pretence).
Etymology: ME f. AF pretense ult. f. med.L pretensus pretended (as PRETEND)
Useful english dictionary. 2012.