Sham
Noun
Definition: Something that is not what it appears to be; a fraud or imitation.
Synonyms: Fake, Counterfeit, Hoax
Antonyms: Genuine, Authentic
Examples:
- The antique vase turned out to be a sham.
- The company's claims of a revolutionary new product were just a sham.
Mnemonics:
- Think of "sham" as a deceptive scam.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "sham" originated from the Irish word "seam," which means "a trick or a fraud."
Historical Usage:The word "sham" has been used for centuries to describe something that is not genuine or authentic.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Sham marriage"
Explanation:Refers to a marriage entered into for fraudulent reasons, such as for immigration benefits.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Using "sham" to describe something that is merely disappointing or subpar.
Explanation:The term "sham" specifically refers to something that is intentionally deceptive or fraudulent, not just of low quality.