deceive

/dɪˈsiːv/verb

To make someone believe something that is not true, usually on purpose.

Example sentences

“The salesman deceived customers by hiding the extra fees.”
“Don't let his friendly smile deceive you; he's a tough negotiator.”

Spelling follows 'i before e except after c'. The noun is 'deceit' and the adjective 'deceptive'; note the shift to p.

Synonyms for deceive

trick
mislead
fool
con
dupe

Related words

debacleA sudden and complete failure, often an embarrassing one.decryTo speak against something publicly because you consider it damaging.dauntingSeeming so difficult or frightening that it makes you lose confidence.dejectedFeeling sad and disappointed, especially after a failure.cynicismAn attitude of distrust toward people's motives or sincerity.cynicalAssuming that people act only for their own benefit rather than from honest or kind motives.