False
/fɔːls/
Meaning & Definition
noun
An assertion or belief that is not true.
The accusation was based on a false.
adjective
Not true or correct; erroneous.
She gave a false testimony in court.
Intended to deceive; fraudulent.
He was charged with making false claims to the insurance company.
Not genuine; counterfeit.
The painting was discovered to be a false imitation of the original.
Lacking truth; misleading.
The article was filled with false information.
adverb
In a manner that is not true or correct.
He reported the incident falsely.
Etymology
Old English 'fals', from Latin 'falsus', meaning 'deceived, misleading'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
false alarm
A warning or indication that turns out to be untrue.
false pretenses
Deceitful or misleading conditions used to gain an advantage.
falsehood
The state of being untrue; a false statement.
Related Words
falsify
To make false or incorrect, especially in order to deceive.
fallacy
A mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound arguments.
forgery
The action of forging or producing a copy or imitation of a document.
Slang Meanings
Fake; not real.
That bag is totally false, it’s just a knockoff.
Not credible; believable.
His story sounded false, like something out of a movie.