VocabDictionary

falsehood

/ˈfɔːls.hʊd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The state of being untrue; a lie or a statement that is intentionally deceptive.

Example Sentences:
  • He was accused of spreading falsehoods to damage his opponent's reputation.
  • The entire narrative was built upon a foundation of falsehood.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

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

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Middle English 'falsehod', a combination of the Old French 'fals' (from Latin 'falsus', meaning 'deceptive' or 'erroneous') and the Old English suffix '-had' (meaning 'state', 'condition', or 'rank'). The suffix '-hood' is a cognate of the German '-heit', denoting a state of being.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'false' 'hood' (a covering)—something that covers the truth to hide it.

Frequently Asked Questions About “falsehood

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

In English, falsehood (noun) is defined as: “The state of being untrue; a lie or a statement that is intentionally deceptive.”.

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

He was accused of spreading falsehoods to damage his opponent's reputation.

3. What are English synonyms of “falsehood”?

Common synonyms include:untruth,fabrication,deceit,mendacity,fiction

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

Derived from Middle English 'falsehod', a combination of the Old French 'fals' (from Latin 'falsus', meaning 'deceptive' or 'erroneous') and the Old English suffix '-had' (meaning 'state', 'condition', or 'rank'). The suffix '-hood' is a cognate of the German '-heit', denoting a state of being.