Langimage
English

fake

|fake|

B1

/feɪk/

pretending

Etymology
Etymology Information

'fake' originates from the English slang of the 18th century, possibly from the German word 'feige,' meaning 'cowardly.'

Historical Evolution

'feige' transformed into the English slang 'fake,' eventually becoming the modern English word 'fake.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'cowardly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not genuine.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a thing that is not genuine; a forgery or sham.

The painting was a fake.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to make something appear real or true in order to deceive.

He faked his own death.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

not genuine; counterfeit.

She wore a fake fur coat.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35