As a noun, counterfeit or fraudulent imitations of genuine items; as a verb, creates false versions of something or pretends to have qualities one doesn't possess. Implies deception or misrepresentation.
From German fegen meaning 'to sweep, clean,' originally thieves' slang for 'to rob.' The meaning evolved to describe anything that 'sweeps away' authenticity, eventually encompassing all forms of counterfeiting and pretense by the 19th century.
The art world's relationship with fakes is fascinatingly complex - some forgeries are so skillfully made that they're considered artworks in their own right. Han van Meegeren's fake Vermeers were so convincing that he was initially charged with treason for selling Dutch cultural treasures to Nazis before proving they were his own creations.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.