ostensible
UK: ɒˈstɛnsɪb(ə)l | US: ɑˈstɛnsəb(ə)l
adj. appearing or stated to be true, but not necessarily so
adj. superficially plausible but misleading
ostensible = ostens<appear> + ible<capable of>
- ostens (from Latin ostendere, meaning "to show" or "appear")
- ible (Latin suffix -ibilis, indicating capability or tendency)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin ostendere ("to show"), ostensible entered English via French in the 18th century. The root ostens- reflects outward appearance, while -ible suggests a passive quality—hence, "capable of being shown" or "apparent." Over time, it acquired a connotation of superficiality, implying a discrepancy between appearance and reality.
His ostensible reason for leaving early was fatigue, but we suspected he had other plans.
The ostensible leader of the group was merely a figurehead.
She maintained an ostensible calm despite the chaos around her.
The document’s ostensible purpose was to clarify, but it only caused more confusion.
Their ostensible generosity masked a calculated strategy.