Definition

A person who tricks or deceives others by creating false stories or situations.

Example

The hoaxer was caught after his fake news story went viral.

Conversation

Did you hear about that latest news story?

Yeah, it turned out to be a complete hoax!

I can't believe people still fall for what a hoaxer creates.

Right? It's surprising how convincing some of them can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hoaxer → The word 'hoax' originates from the 19th-century American slang, possibly derived from 'hocus-pocus', a phrase used in magic tricks, implying deception or trickery. The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs an action. Therefore, a 'hoaxer' is a person who performs deception or trickery.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who uses 'hocus-pocus' to create a trick — that's what a hoaxer does, they deceive or trick others.

Visually Confused Words