hoax

deception / trick / fraud / to deceive

NounTransitive Verb

pl: hoaxespast: hoaxedpp: hoaxeding: hoaxing

This term describes a calculated deception that often targets a large group of people or the general public. While it can be a harmless prank, it frequently carries a connotation of malice or a desire to embarrass the victim by exploiting their gullibility. As a noun, it refers to the fabricated event or the fraudulent scheme itself. When used as a verb, it emphasizes the act of manipulation and the intentional creation of a false reality to mislead others.

Meanings

Noun

A humorous or malicious deception; a practical joke or a fraudulent trick designed to mislead people.

"The reports of the alien landing turned out to be a clever hoax."

Transitive Verb

[~ someone]

To trick or deceive someone by making them believe something that is not true.

"The pranksters tried to hoax the public into believing the statue had come to life."

Last Updated: June 13, 2026•Report an Error