Definition

A false or misleading story that is intended to deceive people.

Example

The newspaper published a canard that caused a lot of confusion among the public.

Conversation

Did you hear that canard about the new restaurant opening downtown?

Yeah, I read about it, but I wasn't sure if it was true or just a rumor.

I thought it was just a canard at first, but it turns out they're really building it!

That's exciting! I can't wait to check it out when it opens.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Canard originates from Old French 'canard', meaning duck. The word refers specifically to the bird, which is often associated with the idea of a false or misleading story, hence its modern usage in English.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word for duck, 'canard', to remember that it originally refers to this bird, which later came to mean a false story.

Visually Confused Words