Figment

/ˈfɪɡmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An invented story or idea.
The tale of the dragon was just a figment created to entertain the children.
A fictitious idea or object.
Her fears of failure were a figment that held her back from pursuing her dreams.
A thing that someone believes to be real but that exists only in their imagination.
The monster under his bed was a mere figment of his imagination.

Etymology

From Latin 'figmentum', from 'figere' meaning 'to shape or to form'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

a figment of one's imagination
Something that is imagined and not real.
just a figment
Indicating that something perceived is not actually real.

Related Words

illusion
A deceptive appearance or impression.
fantasy
The faculty or activity of imagining impossible or improbable things.
delusion
A belief that is clearly false and that indicates an abnormality in the affected person's content of thought.

Slang Meanings

A made-up story or excuse.
His excuse for being late was just a figment.
An imaginary thought that someone believes to be true.
Her fears were nothing more than a figment of her mind.