verb
delude
dih-LOOD/dɪˈluːd/
To make someone believe something that is not true.
The operator deludes the player while secretly holding the ball beneath the table.
Etymology
The pieces combine playing with the idea of detriment: Latin deludere meant to play false, mock, or deceive. That deceptive play connects directly to misleading someone's mind or judgment.
In context
with leading us all to think that the Moonstone was merely lost? Or would she go a step further, and delude us into believing that the Moonstone was stolen?
More examples
- Don't delude yourself into thinking the problem will disappear.
- The scammer deluded investors with reports of enormous profits.
- She is deluding herself about her chances of winning.
Forms
delude · deludes · deluded · deluding
delusion noun — A false belief held despite contrary evidence.