feint
UK: feɪnt | US: feɪnt
n. a deceptive or pretended action, especially in warfare or sports
v. to make a deceptive movement to distract an opponent
The word "feint" originates from Old French feindre (to pretend), derived from Latin fingere (to shape, invent). The spelling evolved with the silent "t" in Middle English, influenced by other French-derived words ending similarly (e.g., "paint"). Initially used in fencing and military tactics, it metaphorically extended to any deceptive maneuver.
The boxer used a feint to trick his opponent into lowering his guard.
Her apology was just a feint to avoid further confrontation.
In chess, a feint can lure the opponent into a trap.
The army’s feint attack diverted attention from their real target.
He feinted left before shooting the ball to the right.