Veneer on top of solid wood?

I was scouting some restoration hardware furniture today because of a massive sale. I went to check the wood quality and the sales person (who does NOT work on commission) said it was made of solid oak with veneer over top of it.

I apologize if I have wounded any of you.

I would like to know anything you can tell me about this kind of thing, I have never heard of it before. Presumably it’s still as sturdy as solid wood, if not a bit tacky. Please advise.