What does hoaxed mean?
To be hoaxed is to be deliberately deceived or misled, often by a story, performance, or false piece of information that seems plausible at first. The expression suggests deception that may be playful, sensational, or intended to manipulate public opinion. Hoaxes can be harmless jokes, such as convincing people that a familiar object has been replaced with a strange imitation, or more serious acts of misinformation and fraud. The verb commonly appears in reports about newspapers, websites, organizations, and public figures, where the aim is to expose a false claim or draw attention to a supposed discovery. Its use clearly signals that the information presented is not genuine. Unlike the more general verb “trick,” “hoax” often implies an organized or carefully constructed deception, making it particularly useful when describing fabricated stories, publicity stunts, and attempts to persuade people through misinformation.
verbTo deceive or trick someone, usually by presenting something as true when it is not. The verb can also refer to making a person appear foolish through a false or misleading story.
- To deceive or trick someone, especially through a false report, story, or appearance.
"The newspaper hoaxed readers into believing that the moon had been made of green cheese."
"The website hoaxed visitors with claims that the product had been approved by a famous scientist."
"They hoaxed their friends into thinking that the kitchen had been rebuilt while they were away."
A good hoax depends on a small, convincing invention that makes people check reality less carefully than they should.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hoaxed come from?
The word “hoax” comes from the earlier English expression “hocus,” as in “hocus-pocus,” a formula associated with magic and sleight of hand. “Hoax” developed as a noun meaning a deception or trick and later acquired the meaning of deceiving someone. The form is related to Latin and French words associated with jugglery, although the exact development of the English form is not entirely straightforward.
Related word forms
How hoaxed is actually used
The word is usually used when the deception is deliberate and intended to mislead, whether for humor, publicity, political purposes, or fraud. It is less common than “tricked” in ordinary conversation.
Easily confused with hoaxed
“Hoaxed” means deceived or tricked, whereas “hooked” can mean caught, attached, or addicted.