Sham: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe something or someone that pretends to be something they are not, usually in a deceptive way.

• The new diet was just a sham; it did nothing to help me lose weight.
• He was exposed as a sham, pretending to be a doctor without any qualifications.

A general term used for anything that is not real or genuine, ranging from emotions to products.

• He wore a fake smile to hide his frustration.
• That designer handbag is a fake; it’s a cheap imitation.

Typically refers to objects, particularly money, documents, or goods that are made to deceive by closely imitating something genuine.

• The police seized a large shipment of counterfeit goods at the border.
• She was nervous about receiving counterfeit money in change.

Refers to a crime involving deception for financial or personal gain; usually involves a more structured and serious type of deceit.

• He was charged with fraud for embezzling funds from the company.
• Insurance fraud is a serious offense that can result in hefty fines and jail time.

Used to describe a deliberate trick or deception, often meant to amuse or make a point, usually not for financial gain.

• The UFO sighting turned out to be a hoax created by some local teenagers.
• She quickly realized the email about winning a million dollars was a hoax.

Used to describe something that is fake or not what it pretends to be. Often has a negative connotation.

• The entire event was a sham, organized to mislead the public.
• Her apology seemed like a sham; she didn't seem sincere at all.

Used when someone pretends to feel or be a certain way, often to deceive others. Generally has a subtle negative connotation.

• He called her on the pretense of needing help, but he just wanted to see her.
• Living under the pretense of happiness, she hid her true emotions well.

Refers to the act of deceiving or misleading someone. Generally used in serious contexts involving dishonesty.

• Her deception was uncovered, and she faced serious consequences.
• The company was involved in a major deception, hiding its financial troubles from investors.

Typically used to describe an act or pretense that is clearly false and done with an element of play or performance. Often implies a level of obvious pretension.

• The negotiations were nothing but a charade, with no real intent to reach an agreement.
• His smile was a charade, masking his true feelings.

Used to describe a method of changing appearance to conceal identity or hide the truth. Often involves physical changes or alterations.

• He wore a disguise to avoid being recognized by the press.
• The spy used a clever disguise to infiltrate the enemy camp.