Definition

Made to look like it is from someone else, often to trick or deceive.

Example

The email was spoofed to make it seem like it was from a trusted source.

Conversation

Did you see that email I got?

Yeah, it looked a bit spoofed to me.

I thought so too! It had some weird links.

Exactly! I almost clicked on one before I realized.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To trick or deceive someone by pretending to be someone else or by creating a false impression.

Example

The hacker spoofed the email address to make it look like it was from a trusted source.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that email that got spoofed last week?

Yeah, I saw it on the news; it's crazy how easy it is to do that.

I can't believe they spoofed a company email like that.

Root Explanation

Spoofed → The word 'spoof' is believed to have originated from the late 19th century, possibly derived from the slang term 'spoof' meaning to deceive or trick, which may have roots in the earlier term 'spoofer' (meaning a hoax or trick). The '-ed' suffix indicates the past tense. Therefore, 'spoofed' means to have been deceived or tricked.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who has been 'tricked' or 'deceived' — that's what 'spoofed' means, as it comes from the idea of a hoax.

Visually Confused Words