mirage

/mɪˈɹɑːdʒ/noun

A trick of light over hot ground that makes you think you see something in the distance, such as water, that is not really there.

Example sentences

“What looked like a lake on the desert road turned out to be a mirage.”
“Thirsty travelers in the desert sometimes chase a mirage of water.”

Figuratively, any hope that vanishes when approached: 'the promised profits proved a mirage'.

Synonyms for mirage

illusion
optical illusion

Related words

mirrorA piece of glass with a shiny backing that reflects light, showing you an image of whatever is in front of it.minutesThe written record of what was said and decided at a meeting.mirthCheerful amusement and fun, usually shown by laughter.minimizeTo reduce something to the smallest possible amount or importance.miserlyUnwilling to spend money; holding on to it too tightly, like a miser.mingleTo move around at a social event and talk with many different people.