Legerdemain

Noun

Definition: Skilful use of one's hands when performing conjuring tricks.

Definition: Deception or trickery, especially using sleight of hand.

Synonyms: Sleight of hand, Magic, Prestidigitation

Antonyms: Straightforwardness, Honesty, Truthfulness

Examples:

The magician's legerdemain left the audience in awe.
He used legerdemain to make the coin disappear.

Mnemonics:

"Lady's domain" - imagine a lady performing intricate hand movements to deceive others.

Etymology:

Origin:

From Middle French "léger de main," meaning "light of hand"

Historical Usage:

The word "legerdemain" has been used in English since the 15th century to refer specifically to the tricks performed by conjurers. Over time, it has also come to be used more broadly to describe deception or trickery.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Master of legerdemain"

Explanation:

Refers to someone who is highly skilled in performing tricks and deception.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Legerdemain is only related to magic tricks and illusions.

Explanation:

While legerdemain is often associated with magic tricks and sleight of hand, it can also be used more broadly to describe deception or trickery in other contexts.