falsehood

noun

false·​hood ˈfȯls-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce falsehood (audio)
1
: an untrue statement : lie
2
: absence of truth or accuracy
3
: the practice of lying : mendacity

Examples of falsehood in a Sentence

the line between truth and falsehood the possibility of a perpetual motion machine is one falsehood that has been disproved by modern physics
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The only way forward is through compromise and cooperation — not falsehoods and finger-pointing. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 19 Oct. 2025 His falsehoods would catch up with him less than a year after his term began. NPR, 17 Oct. 2025 The plans, along with comments by top GOP lawmakers, show how rumors and conspiracy theories can gain an air of legitimacy due to social media and a political climate infused with falsehoods, some political scientists and researchers say. Stephanie Armour, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2025 Jones' falsehoods and rhetoric, the jury found, had caused the families tremendous pain and lasting harm. Phaedra Trethan, USA Today, 14 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for falsehood

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of falsehood was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Falsehood.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/falsehood. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

falsehood

noun
false·​hood ˈfȯls-ˌhu̇d How to pronounce falsehood (audio)
1
: an untrue statement : lie
2
: the habit of lying

More from Merriam-Webster on falsehood

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!