UNAUTHENTIC Synonyms: 38 Similar and Opposite Words

unauthentic

adjective

ˌən-ə-ˈthen-tik

Definition of unauthentic

as in counterfeit

being such in appearance only and made or manufactured with the intention of committing fraud trying to sell unauthentic autographs of American presidents

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 unauthentic Moore said that no matter how famous a host or a guest is, or how elaborate and slick a production is, an unauthentic product will not resonate with audiences. — Yahya Salem, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025 Inaccurate debunks Amid the recycled imagery, authentic pictures of National Guard members sleeping on the floor of a federal building in Los Angeles this week were falsely described as old or unauthentic. — Emma Li, CBS News, 11 June 2025 Both games made changes to the core formula that longtime players didn't appreciate, such as an influx of unauthentic skins and a departure from the class system. — Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Feb. 2025 Its ability to accurately discern and promptly respond to unauthentic negative reviews allows businesses to maintain a legitimate, trustworthy online image. — Jon Stojan, USA TODAY, 26 July 2023 Kingsford, has seen many American-Spanish restaurants in Rhode Island prepare paella, which requires a crunchy outside, in an unauthentic way. — Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 2 June 2022

Recent Examples of Synonyms for unauthentic

Adjective

Investigators also caught the brothers with at least 15 counterfeit and unauthorized bank cards, prosecutors said.

— Joe Marusak July 2, Charlotte Observer, 2 July 2026
The case focused on Muk Choi Lau, a Chinese citizen and green-card holder, who was charged with selling nearly $300,000 in counterfeit shorts before returning from a 2012 trip.

— Bart Jansen, USA Today, 1 July 2026

Definition of counterfeit

Adjective

Judge Ranjan identified several problems with MET’s claims, including MET’s allegation that UA engaged in false advertising by portraying Celliant as having the FDA’s blessing.

— Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 July 2026
Coney Barrett shared her experience bringing home a bulletproof vest and having her house swatted, or subject to false police reports.

— Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 15 July 2026

Definition of false

Adjective

The redesign gutted the inauthentic interiors and added wood paneling, green leather banquettes, and terrazzo flooring.

— Mary Winston Nicklin, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 June 2026
Reflect Company Culture Across External Brand Channels Marketing and communications professionals can detect an inauthentic employer brand from a mile away and won’t want to associate with it.

— Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026