deceive

UK: dɪˈsiːv | US: dɪˈsiːv

Definition

  1. vt. to deliberately make someone believe something that is not true

  2. vt. to mislead by false appearance or statement

Structure
de <away>ceive <take>de <away>ceive <take>
Etymology

The word traces back to Latin decipere ("to ensnare, cheat"), combining de- (away) + capere (to take). It entered Middle English via Old French deceivre, retaining the sense of "leading someone away from the truth by taking them in." The morphemes reflect a logical progression: "taking away" (mentally) → misleading.

Examples

  1. The magician’s trick was designed to deceive the audience.

  2. She felt betrayed when she realized he had deceived her.

  3. Fake news can deceive even the most careful readers.

  4. The spy used a false identity to deceive his enemies.

  5. Appearances can deceive, so always verify the facts.