apocryphally
|a-poc-ry-phal-ly|
🇺🇸
/əˈpɑːkrɪfəl/
🇬🇧
/əˈpɒkrɪf(ə)l/
(apocryphal)
doubtful authenticity
Etymology
'apocryphal' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'apocryphus', where the Greek elements 'apo-' meant 'away' and the root 'kryptein' (kryph-) meant 'to hide'.
'apocryphal' changed from Greek 'apokryphos' to Late Latin 'apocryphus', passed through Medieval Latin/Old French forms, and eventually became the modern English word 'apocryphal' via Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'hidden' or 'secret', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'of doubtful authenticity; spurious'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a doubtful or spurious manner; according to an account of uncertain or questionable authenticity (often used when a story or remark is widely told but likely untrue).
The anecdote is often repeated apocryphally, with details changing each time.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/19 10:12