Definition

Intentionally misleading or dishonest; someone who is not truthful and may trick others.

Example

The deceitful salesman tried to convince me to buy a car that was not in good condition.

Conversation

I can't believe he lied to us about the trip.

I know, it seems so deceitful of him to do that.

Yeah, I thought we were friends, but he's acting so shady.

Exactly! It's hard to trust someone who's so deceitful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Deceitful → It is formed from "deceive" (from Old French *decevoir*, meaning to lead astray) and "-ful" (meaning full of). The word "deceitful" means full of deceit or characterized by deception.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'full of' ('-ful') the ability to 'lead astray' ('deceive') — that's why deceitful describes someone who is misleading.

Visually Confused Words