rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryapocryphaDoubtful writings
noun

apocrypha

uh-PAH-krih-fuh/əˈpɑːkrɪfə/

Writings or stories of doubtful authenticity.

The exaggerated fishing account belongs among apocrypha whose authenticity the specialists question.

Two manuscript specialists compare an old illustrated fishing account with a period photograph of the same fisherman, boat and catch.
Etymology
apoGreekoff, away
+cryphaGreekto hide

Hiding away led to “hidden” or obscure writings, then books of unknown authorship. That association widened beyond biblical texts to writings and stories whose authenticity is doubtful.

More examples

  • The collection includes several pieces of literary apocrypha.
  • These tales belong to the apocrypha of the expedition.
  • She treats the supposed diary as apocrypha, not established evidence.

Similar words

legend
A traditional narrative whose truth may be uncertain.
fabrication
Claims invention more definitely than merely doubtful authenticity.