figment
Figment (noun) means something invented or imagined that has no basis in reality. Example: “The ghost he described turned out to be a figment of his imagination.”
How to use figment
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething made up entirely in someone’s mind, with no basis in fact — almost always paired with "of the/one’s imagination."
Word forms
figments plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The ghost he described turned out to be a _____ of his imagination.
Etymology
From Late Latin figmentum, "something formed or invented," from the same root as "fiction" and "feign."
Rhymes for figment
See all rhymes for figment →Frequently asked questions
What does “figment” mean?
The word “figment” means something invented or imagined that has no basis in reality. In plain terms, something made up entirely in someone’s mind, with no basis in fact — almost always paired with "of the/one’s imagination.".
How do you pronounce “figment”?
“Figment” is pronounced FIHG-muhnt (/ˈfɪɡ.mənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “figment” in a sentence?
Here is “figment” used in a sentence: “The ghost he described turned out to be a figment of his imagination.”
What part of speech is “figment”?
“Figment” is a noun.
Where does the word “figment” come from?
The word “figment” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin figmentum, "something formed or invented," from the same root as "fiction" and "feign.".