liar

UK: ˈlaɪə | US: ˈlaɪər

Definition

  1. n. a person who tells lies or falsehoods intentionally

Structure
lie <false statement>ar <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word liar emerged in Middle English (13th century) by combining the verb lie (to speak falsely) with the agent suffix -ar, which denotes a person associated with an action. The root lie traces back to Germanic origins, reflecting a long-standing cultural emphasis on truthfulness. The suffix -ar was reinforced by Norman French influence, creating a compact term for a deceitful person.

Examples

  1. The politician was exposed as a liar after the scandal.

  2. Don’t trust him—he’s a compulsive liar.

  3. She called him a liar when he denied breaking the vase.

  4. The story revealed the liar’s elaborate deception.

  5. A habitual liar often struggles to maintain credibility.