What does hoax mean?
A hoax is a deliberate deception, typically a false story, report, communication, or staged event that is presented as genuine. The word can refer to the deceptive act itself, as in “the story was a hoax,” or to a fabricated item such as a hoax email or hoax phone call. As a verb, hoax means to deceive someone in this way: a group may hoax the public by falsely announcing an event. The term is common in journalism, media discussions, politics, and everyday references to internet scams and practical jokes. Unlike an accidental mistake, a hoax is intentionally deceptive, and unlike a harmless prank, it may involve significant deception or consequences. Its neutral description does not imply that the deception is humorous, though the word often suggests a false report designed to fool an audience.
A false story, report, or deceptive act intended to fool people.
"The purported research paper was quickly exposed as a hoax."
The word is often used for a fabricated story or communication that is deliberately made to appear credible.
To deceive someone by means of a false story or deceptive act.
"The pranksters hoaxed viewers with a fake news report."
The verb is transitive and describes intentional deception rather than an accidental error.
The standard plural of the noun hoax is hoaxes, with the plural ending pronounced /ɪz/.
"The newspaper has reported several hoaxes involving fake celebrity websites."
The word “hoax” has a mysterious origin: although it has been used since the eighteenth century, its precise ancestry remains uncertain.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hoax come from?
The word hoax is recorded from the eighteenth century, but its precise origin is uncertain. Early uses referred to deceptive practice or deception, and the sense gradually developed toward false accounts and acts intended to fool others. Because the word's deeper ancestry is not securely established, no definite cognate group can confidently be identified.
Related word forms
How hoax is actually used
A hoax usually involves a deliberate attempt to mislead, often for entertainment, attention, political purposes, or financial gain. The noun can refer to the deception itself or to the fabricated message or event, while the verb takes the deceived person as its object.
Easily confused with hoax
A hoax is a deception or false story, whereas hoarse describes a voice that sounds rough or irritated.