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fake

The origin and history of fake.

Etymology

First recorded around 1775 in British criminal slang; its exact origin is uncertain, though it may trace back to a German word meaning "to polish" or "spruce up."

Origin: German · First attested 1775

Class of 1775

fake first entered the language around 1775. Other words from the same year:

See the full Class of 1775 →
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Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.