Hoax: meaning, definitions and examples

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hoax

 

[ həʊks ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

deception

A hoax is a deceptive act or scheme that is intended to trick or deceive people. It is usually designed to attract attention or create confusion, often for the purpose of amusement or to make a point.

Synonyms

deception, fraud, trickery

Examples of usage

  • The fake news article turned out to be a clever hoax.
  • She thought the email was a hoax, but it turned out to be true.
  • The prankster pulled off a hilarious hoax on his friends.
  • The hoax was exposed when the truth came out.
  • People should be cautious of falling for a hoax.
Context #2 | Verb

deceive

To hoax someone means to deceive or trick them by creating a false impression or spreading false information. It involves manipulating someone's beliefs or perceptions for one's own gain.

Synonyms

deceive, mislead, trick

Examples of usage

  • He hoaxed his friends into believing he had won the lottery.
  • They hoaxed the public with a fake video of a UFO sighting.
  • People should be aware of the dangers of being hoaxed online.

Translations

Translations of the word "hoax" in other languages:

🇵🇹 farsa

🇮🇳 धोखा

🇩🇪 Täuschung

🇮🇩 tipuan

🇺🇦 обман

🇵🇱 oszustwo

🇯🇵 でっちあげ

🇫🇷 canular

🇪🇸 engaño

🇹🇷 aldatmaca

🇰🇷 속임수

🇸🇦 خداع

🇨🇿 podvod

🇸🇰 podvod

🇨🇳 骗局

🇸🇮 prevara

🇮🇸 svik

🇰🇿 алдау

🇬🇪 მოტყუება

🇦🇿 aldatma

🇲🇽 engaño

Etymology

The word 'hoax' originated in the late 18th century and is believed to have come from the verb 'hocus,' meaning to deceive or cheat. It has been used to describe various forms of deceptive practices, from practical jokes to elaborate scams. Hoaxes have been a part of human history for centuries, often used to entertain, manipulate, or exploit others.

See also: hoaxer.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,980, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.