Definition

A person who claims something, often falsely, or pretends to be something they are not.

Example

The pretender tried to convince everyone that he was the rightful heir to the throne.

Conversation

I can't believe that guy is such a pretender at the party.

Right? He acts like he's a celebrity or something.

It's funny how some people just can't be themselves.

Totally! It's way better to be genuine than to be a pretender.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pretender → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "tendere" (meaning to stretch or to extend). The word refers to someone who stretches or extends themselves into a role or identity that is not genuine, thus pretending to be something they are not.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'stretching' ('tendere') into a role 'before' ('pre-') their true self — that's why a pretender is someone who is not genuine.

Visually Confused Words