Definition
Not genuine or real; artificial or imitation; simulated or pretended.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
fake, imitation, artificial, simulated, pretended, mock, false, phony, counterfeit
Antonyms
genuine, real, authentic
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | None |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | faux |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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She was wearing a faux fur coat that looked surprisingly real.
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The designer’s new line featured many pieces made from faux leather and suede.
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The painting was a well-executed faux masterpiece that fooled many art experts.
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His faux sincerity was transparent to everyone in the room.
Usage
The word “faux” is used to describe something that is not genuine or real, but instead is artificial, imitation, or simulated. It can refer to anything from materials used in clothing or furniture, to emotions, attitudes, or behaviors that are pretended or fake. The word has a negative connotation, suggesting that the thing being described is trying to pass itself off as something it is not.
The word “faux” is borrowed from French, where it means “false” or “fake.” It is often used in English in combination with other words to create new words that describe things that are fake or artificial. For example, “faux pas” is a French term that has been adopted into English to mean a social mistake or blunder. “Faux wood” or “faux stone” are terms used to describe materials that simulate the look of wood or stone, but are made from other materials like plastic or composite materials.
Overall, the word “faux” is a useful term that describes a common phenomenon in modern society, where many things are manufactured or simulated to resemble something else. Its negative connotation reflects the idea that authenticity and genuineness are valued qualities in many aspects of life. As such, it is a valuable addition to any vocabulary.