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Definition of delude

delude

/dɪˈluːd/
de · lude
Adverb:delusionally
•
Adjective:delusional
•
Past Simple:deluded
•
Past Participle:deluded
•
Present Participle:deluding
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delude Lexical Profile

delude Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To impose a misleading belief upon someone; to deceive or fool someone into accepting what is false or unreal.

Example

"We must not delude ourselves into thinking that this complex economic problem will resolve itself overnight."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for delude
Antonyms
View all antonyms for delude

Word Nuance & Usage

"Delude" is most frequently used reflexively (e.g., "to delude oneself") to describe holding on to a false or unrealistic belief, whereas "deceive" more commonly involves one person actively lying to another.

• Rhymes for delude

• Nearby Words

delt
delta
deltoid
delude
deluge
delusion
delusional

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 15th century from Latin deludere, meaning "to play false" or "to mock," formed from de- (down, to one's detriment) and ludere (to play).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Delude. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/delude
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