delusion
Delusion (noun) means a firmly held false belief, maintained even against clear evidence. Example: “His delusion that he was being watched grew worse over the years.”
How to use delusion
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA false belief someone holds onto tightly, even when the facts say otherwise.
In clinical use, a delusion is a specific symptom of certain mental health conditions, not just any mistaken idea.
Word forms
delusions plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His _____ that he was being watched grew worse over the years.
Etymology
From Latin delusio, from deludere ("to deceive").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for delusion
Frequently asked questions
What does “delusion” mean?
The word “delusion” means a firmly held false belief, maintained even against clear evidence. In plain terms, a false belief someone holds onto tightly, even when the facts say otherwise.
How do you pronounce “delusion”?
“Delusion” is pronounced dih-LOOZHN (/dɪˈl(j)uːʒ(ə)n/ in IPA).
How do you use “delusion” in a sentence?
Here is “delusion” used in a sentence: “His delusion that he was being watched grew worse over the years.”
What part of speech is “delusion”?
“Delusion” is a noun.
Where does the word “delusion” come from?
The word “delusion” comes from Latin. From Latin delusio, from deludere ("to deceive").
Is “delusion” a common word?
“Delusion” is an uncommon word in modern English.