Definitions

deceptive

[dih-sep-tiv] / dɪˈsɛp tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

dishonest

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous deceitful disingenuous false fraudulent misleading slick sneaky subtle tricky underhanded unreliable

WEAK

astucious beguiling bum catchy crafty cunning deceiving deluding delusive delusory designing fake fallacious fishy foxy illusory imposturous indirect insidious lying mock oblique off phony plausible rascal roguish scheming seeming serpentine shifty slippery sly snide specious spurious treacherous two-faced underhand wily

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aboveboard forthright frank genuine honest open real reliable sincere true trustworthy truthful valid

WEAK

upright

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

However, they also agreed with Cipollone that tobacco liability cases do not get blanket federal preemption, especially if industry participates in fraud or other deceptive practices independent of a warning label.

From Slate • Jun. 25, 2026

The findings suggest that placebo treatments can improve several aspects of functioning in older adults, with open-label placebos performing as well as, or in some cases better than, deceptive placebos.

From Science Daily • Jun. 25, 2026

The state is seeking a “cease and desist” order to stop the insurer from engaging in unfair or deceptive practices.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

According to TikTok’s community guidelines, the platform bans accounts engaging in deceptive or manipulative activity or discrimination.

From Barron's • Jun. 18, 2026

Aunt Anne sat down with deceptive calm, and gave us a disarming smile.

From "Cheaper by the Dozen" by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey

Vocabulary lists containing deceptive

Fake It 'Til You Make It: Synonyms for "False"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Essential English Vocabulary, List 2

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Red Kayak

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!