Sham - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A sham is something false or deceptive, pretending to be genuine. It can refer to a fake object, a dishonest act, or insincere behavior meant to mislead others.
Definition:
A false or deceptive act, pretense, or imitation.
Synonyms:
fake, fraud, hoax, imposture, counterfeit
Part of Speech:
noun, verb, adjective
Antonyms:
genuine, real
Common Collocations:
sham marriage, sham trial, sham democracy
Derivatives:
shammed, shamming, shams
Usage Tips:
Use "sham" to describe something deliberately fake or misleading in nature.
Common Phrases:
sham election, put up a sham, sham of justice
Etymology:
Originated from 17th-century English; possibly derived from "shame," influenced by "shameless."
Examples:
- 1. The politician’s apology was a sham to save face.
- 2. She saw through his sham kindness immediately.
- 3. The company staged a sham charity event for publicity.
- 4. Don’t be fooled by their sham promises.