Meaning & Definition of word "Pretender"
to
Pretender
/prɪˈtɛndər/
noun:
- 1. A person who claims or acts as if they have a certain status or quality, but do not.
- Example: The man was exposed as a pretender when his lack of credentials was revealed.
- 2. A person who puts on a false appearance or acts in a deceptive manner.
- Example: She was merely a pretender, trying to fit into a world she didn’t belong to.
- 3. In historical contexts, a claimant to a throne or title who is not the legitimate heir.
- Example: The pretender to the throne gathered support from various factions in the kingdom.
- 4. Someone who feigns interest or affection for ulterior motives.
- Example: He seemed genuinely interested in the project, but many thought he was just a pretender.
Etymology
From Middle English 'pretendere', from Old French 'pretendre', from Latin 'praetendere'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pretender to the throne:
Someone who claims a right to a throne without legitimate right.
the great pretender:
A phrase often used to describe someone who is not genuine.
Related Words
imposter:
A person who pretends to be someone else to deceive others.
deceiver:
Someone who causes others to believe something false.
Slang Meanings of pretender
Meaning: Poser
Example Sentence: He's just a poser trying to fit into that crowd.
Meaning: Fake
Example Sentence: Don't be such a fake about your interests.