Pretend

Definition

The term "pretend" describes the act of making something appear true or real, often for deception or imaginative purposes.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Adjective (less common)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prɪˈtɛnd/
• Respelling: pri-TEND

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /prɪˈtɛnd/
• Respelling: pri-TEND

Etymology

The word "pretend" originates from the Latin "praetendere," meaning "to stretch forth" or "put forward as an excuse," via Old French "pretendre." It entered Middle English in the late 14th century, initially meaning "to assert or claim."

Derivatives

• Pretender (noun)
• Pretended (adjective)
• Pretending (verb, present participle)
• Pretension (noun)
• Pretentious (adjective)

Synonyms

• Feign
• Simulate
• Act

Antonyms

• Reveal
• Be truthful
• Expose

Usage

The term "pretend" is used in contexts involving imagination, deception, or role-playing. For example: "The child likes to pretend to be a superhero," or "He tried to pretend that he wasn’t upset."

Related Terms

• Deceive: To mislead or cause someone to believe something untrue.
• Imagination: The ability to form ideas or images not present to the senses.
• Fiction: Invented stories or events.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make believe or act as if something is true: Refers to role-playing or acting in a manner contrary to reality.
  • Example: "The children pretended they were explorers in the jungle."
• To feign or simulate: Refers to acting or behaving in a way to mislead others.
  • Example: "She pretended to be asleep when her mother entered the room."

Adjective (less common)

• Imaginary or make-believe: Refers to something not real or genuine, often used in playful contexts.
  • Example: "The children played with their pretend tea set."