falsify
UK: /ˈfɔːlsɪfaɪ/ | US: /ˈfɒlsɪfaɪ/
vt. to alter or manipulate (information, data, or evidence) to deceive
vt. to prove or declare (something) false or invalid
vi. to misrepresent or distort the truth
The word falsify traces back to Late Latin falsificare, combining falsus (false) and -ficare (to make). It entered Middle English via Old French falsifier, retaining its core meaning of "making something false." The morphemes clearly reflect the action of distorting truth, aligning with its modern usage in legal, scientific, and everyday contexts.
The scientist was accused of attempting to falsify research data.
It is illegal to falsify documents for financial gain.
The detective uncovered evidence that the witness had falsified their testimony.
Some companies falsify product labels to avoid regulations.
Historians must never falsify records to fit a narrative.