Meaning & Definition of word "Sham"

Sham

/ʃæm/

1. A thing that is not what it is purported to be; a false impression or a pretense.
- Example: The charity event turned out to be a sham, as the organizers pocketed the donations instead of helping those in need.
2. A trick or deception.
- Example: His promise to help was just a sham to avoid facing the real issue.
3. A fabric or covering made to look like something it is not.
- Example: The designer used a sham cover to give the couch a more luxurious appearance.

1. To falsely present something as genuine; to trick or deceive.
- Example: They shammed their way into the exclusive club by using fake identities.

1. Not genuine; fraudulent.
- Example: The sham relationship was evident to everyone who knew them.

Originated in the late 19th century, from the slang term 'sham' meaning 'to feign or pretend'.

sham marriage:

A marriage entered into for reasons other than love, often for legal status or financial gain.

sham company:

A company that exists only on paper, used for fraudulent purposes.

sham debate:

A debate that is not serious or genuine; typically staged.

pretense:

An attempt to make something that is not the case appear true.

subterfuge:

Deceit used in order to achieve one's goal.

charade:

A ridiculous pretense intended to create a pleasant or respectable appearance.

Meaning: A person who is not genuine.

Example Sentence: He's such a sham; he pretends to be an activist but does nothing.

Meaning: A situation that is fake or fabricated.

Example Sentence: That party was a sham, nobody even showed up.