Pseudo

/ˈsuː.doʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person or thing that falsely claims to be something else.
The gallery was filled with pseudo artists trying to sell their counterfeit pieces.
A simulated or artificial version of something.
He created a pseudo of the original software to test its vulnerabilities.
adjective
Not genuine; sham or false.
The pseudo-scientific claims made by the website were debunked by experts.
Having the appearance of something, but not the actual characteristics.
His pseudo-intellectualism was evident in his inability to engage in deep discussions.

Etymology

From Greek 'pseudes' meaning 'false'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pseudo-science
Practices or beliefs that are claimed to be scientific but lack scientific validity.
pseudo-intellectual
A person who pretends an interest in intellectual matters for reasons of social status or self-importance.
pseudo-artist
An individual who claims to be an artist without possessing genuine skills.

Related Words

pseudonym
A fictitious name used by an author.
pseudocode
An informal high-level description of a computer program or algorithm.

Slang Meanings

A fake or imitation version of something.
That designer bag is just a pseudo; it's not the real deal.
Someone who acts like they understand something but really doesn't.
He's such a pseudo when it comes to art; he just copies what he sees.