Definition

A person who pretends to be someone else in order to trick others, often by using a false identity.

Example

The imposter managed to fool everyone at the party by pretending to be a famous actor.

Conversation

Did you hear about that guy who was an imposter at the party last week?

Yeah, I heard he was pretending to be someone famous!

It's crazy how people try to deceive others like that.

I know! It makes you wonder how many other imposters are out there.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Imposter → It is formed from "im-" (meaning not) and "ponere" (meaning to place). The word describes someone who places themselves in a role or identity that is not their own, hence an imposter is someone who is not what they claim to be.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'not' ('im-') in their true role, 'placing' ('ponere') themselves in a false identity — that's why an imposter is someone pretending to be someone else.

Visually Confused Words