verb
C2
Proficient
feign
fayn
Feign (verb) means to pretend to feel or have something that isn't real. Example: “She feigned surprise when they announced the winner, even though she already knew.”
verb
1
To pretend to feel or have something that isn't real.
"She feigned surprise when they announced the winner, even though she already knew."
"He feigned illness to avoid going to work."
How to use feign
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo fake an emotion, illness, or reaction that you don't actually have.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "feint," a related but distinct word meaning a deceptive move in combat or sport.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
feign surprise
feign ignorance
feign interest
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- feigns
- Past tense
- feigned
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ surprise when they announced the winner, even though she already knew.
Etymology
From Old French feindre, "to pretend," from Latin fingere, "to shape or invent" — a relative of fiction and figment.
Related words
Rhymes for feign
See all rhymes for feign →Frequently asked questions
What does “feign” mean?
The word “feign” means to pretend to feel or have something that isn't real. In plain terms, to fake an emotion, illness, or reaction that you don't actually have.
How do you pronounce “feign”?
“Feign” is pronounced fayn (/feɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “feign” in a sentence?
Here is “feign” used in a sentence: “She feigned surprise when they announced the winner, even though she already knew.”
What is another word for “feign”?
Words with a similar meaning to “feign” include deceive.
What part of speech is “feign”?
“Feign” is a verb.
Where does the word “feign” come from?
The word “feign” comes from Latin. From Old French feindre, "to pretend," from Latin fingere, "to shape or invent" — a relative of fiction and figment.
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