Shamming: meaning, definitions and examples

deception practice

Shamming refers to the act of pretending to be something one is not, often for deceitful purposes. It can involve portraying false emotions, invalid conditions, or feigning abilities. This term is frequently associated with disingenuous behavior within social, professional, or financial situations. The notion of shamming also ties into the broader concept of dishonesty and fraud, where an individual seeks to gain advantage by misleading others.

deceiving, faking, pretending

Examples of usage

• He was shamming as a wealthy businessman to gain trust.

• She was shamming her injury to avoid work.

• The con artist was caught shamming his qualifications.