spurious
UK: ˈspjʊə.ri.əs | US: ˈspjʊr.i.əs
adj. not genuine, authentic, or true; false or counterfeit
adj. outwardly similar but lacking key qualities; deceptive
adj. (biology) resembling but not genetically related
spurious = spur<false> + ious<adjective suffix>
- spur<false>: From Latin spurius, meaning "illegitimate, false." Originally referred to illegitimate birth in Roman society, later extended to mean "not genuine."
- ious<adjective suffix>: A common suffix derived from Latin -iosus, indicating "full of" or "having the nature of."
Etymology Origin:
The word spurious traces back to Latin spurius, which initially described children born out of wedlock in ancient Rome. Over time, its meaning broadened to denote anything false or illegitimate. The suffix -ious reinforces its adjectival form, emphasizing the deceptive or counterfeit nature of the subject. The evolution reflects societal attitudes toward legitimacy and authenticity.
The document was dismissed as spurious after forensic analysis revealed forged signatures.
His spurious claims about the invention were debunked by experts.
The two species look alike but are spurious relatives with no genetic connection.
She saw through his spurious charm and recognized his manipulative intent.
The museum removed the spurious artifact from its collection once its origin was questioned.