Meaning & Definition of word "Pretender"

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.