Meaning & Definition of word "Delusion"

Delusion

/dɪˈluːʒən/

1. A false belief or judgment about external reality, held despite evidence to the contrary, typically as a symptom of a mental disorder.
- Example: She was under the delusion that she could win the lottery every week.
2. The state of believing something that is not true.
- Example: His delusion led him to think that he was invincible.
3. A belief that is maintained despite being contradicted by reality or rational argument.
- Example: The politician’s promises were often dismissed as delusions by the public.
4. A mistaken or misleading impression, particularly in a broader social context.
- Example: The delusion of grandeur experienced by some celebrities can lead to poor decision-making.
5. An erroneous perception or interpretation of reality.
- Example: The scientist cautioned against the delusions that can arise from bias in experimental results.

Latin 'delusio', from 'deludere' meaning 'to deceive'.

delusion of grandeur:

A false belief that one is more important or powerful than one is.

self-delusion:

The act of deceiving oneself to maintain a false belief.

delusion of reference:

The belief that common elements of the environment are directly related to oneself.

illusion:

A false idea or belief, often perceived visually.

hallucination:

An experience involving the apparent perception of something not present.

Meaning: Living in a fantasy world.

Example Sentence: She's so into her delusions that she thinks she's going to be famous overnight.

Meaning: Having unrealistic beliefs about oneself or one's situation.

Example Sentence: His friends tell him he's got delusions if he thinks he can quit his job and start music immediately.