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Apocryphal: meaning, definitions and examples

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apocryphal

 

[ əˈpɒkrɪfəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

controversial literature

Apocryphal refers to writings or accounts of dubious authenticity or authorship, particularly those that are not officially accepted as part of the canon. These texts often involve religious or historical narratives that lack verification by credible sources. Consequently, they may carry a sense of skepticism regarding their validity. Despite this, apocryphal works can provide valuable insight into the beliefs and practices of certain groups. For example, certain apocryphal gospels recount the life and teachings of Jesus but are not included in the New Testament.

Synonyms

dubious, fictitious, unauthentic

Examples of usage

  • The apocryphal tales of the ancient prophets sparked debates among scholars.
  • Many apocryphal texts reveal cultural insights from their time periods.
  • Scholars often debate the significance of apocryphal writings.

Translations

Translations of the word "apocryphal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apócrifo

🇮🇳 अपोक्रिफ़ल

🇩🇪 apokryph

🇮🇩 apokrif

🇺🇦 апокрифний

🇵🇱 apokryficzny

🇯🇵 偽典の

🇫🇷 apocryphe

🇪🇸 apócrifo

🇹🇷 apokrif

🇰🇷 외경의

🇸🇦 مُزَوَّر

🇨🇿 apokryfní

🇸🇰 apokryfní

🇨🇳 伪经的

🇸🇮 apokrifen

🇮🇸 apokryfískur

🇰🇿 апокрифтік

🇬🇪 აპოკრიფული

🇦🇿 apokrif

🇲🇽 apócrifo

Etymology

The word 'apocryphal' originates from the Greek 'apokryphos', which means 'hidden' or 'secret'. This term was derived from 'apokryptein', meaning 'to hide away'. The use of the term developed over time as various texts, particularly those related to biblical scripture, emerged that were not universally accepted within the religious canon. By the late Middle Ages, the term began to take on a more specific connotation, referring to writings that were considered to be of questionable authenticity, especially those that are religiously significant. The idea of hidden or secret literature aligns with the historical context in which many of these writings were found, often circulated among select groups rather than within the mainstream. Thus, the apocryphal has gained a reputation for its association with the esoteric and the often enigmatic nature of the stories themselves.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,529, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.