Definition

False information that is spread intentionally to mislead people, often to influence opinions or hide the truth.

Example

The campaign was filled with disinformation aimed at confusing voters.

Conversation

Have you heard about the recent spread of disinformation online?

Yeah, it's really concerning how easily people believe it.

I know, right? It makes it hard to trust what's real anymore.

Totally, we need to be careful about where we get our news.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disinformation is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "information" (from Latin "informare", meaning to shape or form). The word refers to information that is deliberately shaped or formed to mislead or deceive, hence the idea of separating the truth from falsehood.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dis-' meaning apart and 'information' as shaping knowledge — disinformation is knowledge that is shaped to mislead.

Visually Confused Words