Definition

Tending to mislead or create false beliefs.

Example

His delusory hopes of winning the lottery kept him from making practical plans.

Conversation

I was reading about some conspiracy theories, and they seem so delusory at times.

Yeah, it’s crazy how people can believe in things that have no real evidence.

I just don’t understand how someone can be so convinced by delusory ideas.

It’s all about the need for certainty; some people just want to believe in something.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Delusory → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "ludere" (meaning to play). The word describes something that plays down or away from reality, leading to a false impression or illusion.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'plays away' from reality — 'de-' means down or away, and 'ludere' means to play, which helps you remember that 'delusory' refers to something that creates an illusion.

Visually Confused Words