Deceitful

/dɪˈsiːtfəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Guilty of misleading or deceiving people; untrustworthy.
The deceitful politician made promises he never intended to keep.
Intended to deceive; misleading.
Her deceitful actions led to a breakdown of trust in the friendship.
Characterized by deception or dishonesty.
The company's deceitful advertising resulted in numerous complaints from customers.

Etymology

Middle English: from deceit + -ful.

Common Phrases and Expressions

deceitful act
An action intended to mislead or trick someone.
deceitful heart
A metaphor for someone who is untrustworthy or dishonest at their core.
play a deceitful game
Engage in behavior that is dishonest and manipulative.

Related Words

deceit
The action or practice of deceiving someone by concealing or misrepresenting the truth.
deception
The act of deceiving someone.
dishonesty
Behavior that is not truthful or is deceptive.

Slang Meanings

Two-faced
You can't trust him; he's totally two-faced.
Snake
Watch out for him, he's a snake.