VocabDictionary

charlatan

/ˈʃɑːr.lə.tən/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A person falsely claiming to have special knowledge, skill, or qualifications; a fraud, fake, or quack.

Example Sentences:
  • The self-proclaimed psychic was eventually exposed as a charlatan who preyed on vulnerable grieving families.
  • Before following medical advice found on social media, ensure the author is a credentialed physician and not a charlatan selling miracle cures.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “charlatan”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Italian 'ciarlatano', which blends 'ciarlare' (meaning 'to chatter' or 'to prattle') with 'cerretano' (a term for an inhabitant of Cerreto, a village in Umbria known for its itinerant quacks and hawkers). It passed into English in the early 17th century via French.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a CHARming talker who speaks a LOT-And-Nonsense: CHAR-LAT-AN.

Frequently Asked Questions About “charlatan

1. What is the meaning of “charlatan” in English?

In English, charlatan (noun) is defined as: “A person falsely claiming to have special knowledge, skill, or qualifications; a fraud, fake, or quack.”.

2. How do you use “charlatan” in a sentence?

The self-proclaimed psychic was eventually exposed as a charlatan who preyed on vulnerable grieving families.

3. What are English synonyms of “charlatan”?

Common synonyms include:quack,impostor,fraud,mountebank,sham

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “charlatan”?

Derived from the Italian 'ciarlatano', which blends 'ciarlare' (meaning 'to chatter' or 'to prattle') with 'cerretano' (a term for an inhabitant of Cerreto, a village in Umbria known for its itinerant quacks and hawkers). It passed into English in the early 17th century via French.