Dissimulation

/dɪˌsɪmjəˈleɪʃən/ noun

Definition

The act or practice of hiding one's true feelings, intentions, or character; deception through disguise or pretense.

Etymology

From Latin dissimulatio, formed from dissimulare with the -tion suffix. This noun describes the practice or result of dissimulating. It appears in literature and philosophy as a studied form of deception.

Kelly Says

Dissimulation was considered an art form in Renaissance courts—Machiavelli discussed it as a necessary political skill, and writers would describe courtiers' dissimulation as they navigated deadly political intrigue where honesty meant death.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.