covering

noun

1
the work of applying something
the doctor prescribed a topical application of iodine
a complete bleach requires several applications
2
the act of protecting something by covering it
3
the act of concealing the existence of something by obstructing the view of it
the cover concealed their guns from enemy aircraft
4
an artifact that covers something else (usually to protect or shelter or conceal it)
5
a natural object that covers or envelops
under a covering of dust
the fox was flushed from its cover

Also useful for “covering”:Scrabble— High-value letters — see what it scores