delusory

adjective

di-ˈlü-sə-rē How to pronounce delusory (audio)
Definition of delusorynext
as in misleading
tending or having power to deceive the delusory notion that wealth invariably brings happiness

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of delusory That is delusory of course, but it can be fashioned into a victory claim that might well be readily embraced by war-weary and war-wary Russians in the public and among the elite. — John Mueller, Foreign Affairs, 29 Nov. 2022
Recent Examples of Synonyms for delusory
  1. misleading
  2. deceptive
  3. false
Adjective
  • Misleading updates The suit details several allegations of investors’ being given updates that ended up being misleading or false.
    — Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Numerous studies have shown that Covid-19 vaccines are safe during pregnancy, but Republican senators have recently stirred up false and misleading claims that are now spreading on social media.
    — Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of misleading
Adjective
  • Violations of the law are a deceptive trade practice, which can be investigated by the state attorney general's office.
    — Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Protection of the president has often required deft and deceptive tactics by the Secret Service.
    — Donald J. Mihalek, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of deceptive
Adjective
  • Along with the WiFi jammer, deputies said they were found to be in possession of false license plates and burglary tools.
    — Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Many of these times, KFA employees allegedly filed false expense reports chalking up the charges to meals, drinks, or standard massages.
    — Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of false

Browse Nearby Words

delusive
delusory
deluxe
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Delusory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/delusory. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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