Top 38 Slang For Fake – Meaning & Usage

From counterfeit designer bags to phony smiles, fakes are all around us. But, have you ever wondered what the slang terms are for fake? Well, wonder no more! We’ve got you covered with a list of the top slang words for fake, so you can stay ahead of the game and navigate the world of deception like a pro. Get ready to expand your vocabulary and never fall for a fake again!

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1. Phony

This word is used to describe something or someone that is not genuine or authentic. It implies deception or dishonesty.

For example, “He tried to sell me a phony Rolex watch.”
In a conversation about a dishonest person, someone might say, “He’s such a phony.”
A person might use this word to describe a fake ID, saying, “That’s a phony driver’s license.”

2. Fraud

Fraud refers to an intentional act of deceiving or tricking someone for personal gain or to cause harm. It can involve financial or identity theft.

For instance, “He committed credit card fraud by using stolen card information.”
In a discussion about online scams, someone might say, “Be careful of email fraud that asks for your personal information.”
A person might warn others about a fraudulent business, saying, “That company is a fraud. They take your money and never deliver the product.”

3. Counterfeit

Counterfeit refers to something that is made to imitate or replicate something else, usually with the intention to deceive or defraud.

For example, “He bought a counterfeit designer handbag from a street vendor.”
In a conversation about counterfeit money, someone might mention, “The bank detected a counterfeit $20 bill.”
A person might warn others about counterfeit products, saying, “Be cautious when buying electronics online, as there are many counterfeit items.”

4. Bogus

Bogus is a slang term used to describe something that is false, fake, or not genuine. It implies deception or dishonesty.

For instance, “He gave me a bogus excuse for not showing up.”
In a discussion about a fake product, someone might say, “That website sells bogus supplements.”
A person might use this word to describe a fraudulent email, saying, “I received a bogus email claiming I won a lottery.”

5. Sham

Sham refers to something that is not genuine or authentic, often used to describe a fraudulent or deceptive act.

For example, “The company’s promises turned out to be a sham.”
In a conversation about a fake charity, someone might say, “Don’t donate to that organization, it’s a sham.”
A person might use this word to describe a deceptive person, saying, “He’s a sham artist, always trying to trick people.”

6. Pretend

To pretend is to act as if something is true or real, even though it is not. It is often used to describe someone who is not being genuine or sincere.

For example, a child might pretend to be a superhero while playing.
In a conversation, one might say, “Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not.”
A person might pretend to like a certain food to fit in with their friends.

7. Faux

Faux is a French word that means “fake” or “false.” It is commonly used in English to describe something that is made to look like something else, but is not authentic.

For instance, faux fur is a synthetic material that imitates the appearance of real fur.
A person might say, “I can’t afford a real diamond, so I bought a faux one.”
In interior design, faux finishes are techniques used to mimic the look of materials like marble or wood.

8. Pseudo

Pseudo is a prefix that means “false” or “fake.” It is often used to describe something or someone that is pretending to be something they are not.

For example, a pseudo-intellectual is someone who acts as if they are highly intelligent, but lacks true knowledge or understanding.
In a discussion about music, one might say, “That band is just a pseudo-rock group.”
A person might describe a fake social media account as a pseudo-profile.

9. Knockoff

A knockoff is a cheap imitation or replica of a popular or expensive item. It is often used to describe counterfeit products that are designed to look like the real thing.

For instance, a knockoff designer handbag is a fake version of a high-end brand.
A person might say, “I bought a knockoff Rolex watch for a fraction of the price.”
In a discussion about counterfeit goods, one might say, “Knockoff products can be found in many markets around the world.”

10. Hoax

A hoax is a deliberate act of deception or fraud, often intended to trick or deceive people. It is typically used to describe a false or misleading story or event.

For example, a viral internet hoax might claim that a celebrity has died, when in fact they are alive and well.
A person might say, “Don’t believe everything you read online, it could be a hoax.”
In a discussion about conspiracy theories, one might say, “That theory has been debunked as a hoax.”

11. Charlatan

A charlatan is someone who pretends to have knowledge or skills they do not possess, often with the intention of deceiving others for personal gain.

For example, a person claiming to be a psychic or fortune teller who takes money from vulnerable individuals is a charlatan.
In a discussion about fake doctors, someone might say, “That guy claiming to be a surgeon turned out to be a charlatan.”
A person might warn others by saying, “Beware of the charlatans selling miracle cures online.”

12. Quack

A quack is a derogatory term used to describe someone who falsely claims to have medical knowledge or skills, particularly an unlicensed or unqualified person who practices medicine.

For instance, a person selling fake medicines or providing unproven medical treatments can be referred to as a quack.
In a conversation about alternative medicine, someone might say, “I don’t trust those quacks who claim to cure cancer with herbs.”
A person might express skepticism by saying, “I wouldn’t go to that quack for medical advice.”

13. Faker

A faker is a person who intentionally presents themselves as someone or something they are not, often with the intention of deceiving others.

For example, a person pretending to be wealthy and successful on social media, but actually living a completely different lifestyle, is a faker.
In a discussion about online dating, someone might say, “Watch out for the fakers who use fake profiles.”
A person might express frustration by saying, “I can’t stand people who are constantly pretending to be someone they’re not. They’re such fakers.”

14. Imposter

An imposter is a person who pretends to be someone else, often with the intention of deceiving others or gaining something through deception.

For instance, a person assuming the identity of a famous celebrity to gain access to exclusive events is an imposter.
In a conversation about identity theft, someone might say, “The imposter used my credit card information to make fraudulent purchases.”
A person might express disbelief by saying, “I can’t believe there are people out there who make a living as imposters.”

15. Deceptive

Deceptive refers to something that is designed or intended to mislead or trick others, often by presenting false or incomplete information.

For example, a deceptive advertisement that promises unrealistic results is meant to deceive potential customers.
In a discussion about political campaigns, someone might say, “The candidate’s deceptive tactics are meant to manipulate voters.”
A person might warn others by saying, “Be careful with online scams. They can be very deceptive and convincing.”

16. Phoney-baloney

This term is used to describe something or someone that is not genuine or authentic. It is often used in a lighthearted or playful manner.

For example, “That story he told us was just phoney-baloney.”
A person might say, “Don’t believe her, she’s full of phoney-baloney.”
Another might comment, “His excuse for being late was phoney-baloney.”

17. Plastic

This slang term is used to describe someone who is fake, insincere, or superficial. It is often used to criticize someone who is not genuine or authentic.

For instance, “She’s so plastic, I can’t stand her.”
A person might say, “Don’t trust him, he’s completely plastic.”
Another might comment, “Her smile is so plastic, it’s unnerving.”

18. Poser

A poser is someone who tries to appear as something they are not, often for the purpose of impressing others or fitting in. It is used to describe someone who is not genuine or authentic.

For example, “He’s such a poser, always trying to act cool.”
A person might say, “She’s just a poser, pretending to be interested in that band.”
Another might comment, “Don’t be a poser, just be yourself.”

19. Copycat

A copycat is someone who imitates or copies the actions, style, or behavior of others. It is used to describe someone who is not original or authentic.

For instance, “She’s such a copycat, always copying my outfits.”
A person might say, “He’s just a copycat, trying to be like everyone else.”
Another might comment, “Don’t be a copycat, come up with your own ideas.”

20. Fraudster

A fraudster is someone who engages in fraudulent activities or deception for personal gain. It is used to describe someone who is not honest or trustworthy.

For example, “The company was shut down after the fraudster was exposed.”
A person might say, “Watch out for that fraudster, he’ll try to scam you.”
Another might comment, “The fraudster was arrested and charged with multiple counts of fraud.”

21. Imitation

This refers to a copy or replica of something, usually of lesser quality or value. “Imitation” is a more formal term for a fake or counterfeit item.

For instance, someone might say, “I bought an imitation designer handbag that looks just like the real thing.”
In a discussion about art, one might comment, “Many artists create imitations of famous paintings to practice their skills.”
A person might warn, “Be careful when buying electronics online, there are a lot of imitation products out there.”

22. Fabrication

This term refers to something that has been invented or created, often with the intention of deceiving others. “Fabrication” can also refer to the act of creating a false story or piece of information.

For example, someone might say, “The story he told about his past was a complete fabrication.”
In a discussion about news articles, one might comment, “It’s important to fact-check before sharing to avoid spreading fabrications.”
A person might warn, “Don’t believe everything you read online, there’s a lot of fabrication out there.”

23. Phony-baloney

This is a playful and informal term for something or someone that is not genuine or authentic. “Phony-baloney” is often used to express disbelief or skepticism.

For instance, someone might say, “That salesman is full of phony-baloney, don’t believe a word he says.”
In a discussion about a suspicious claim, one might comment, “That sounds like phony-baloney to me, I don’t buy it.”
A person might jokingly accuse a friend, “You’re just a phony-baloney, trying to trick me!”

24. Fakery

This term refers to the act of creating or presenting something that is not genuine or authentic. “Fakery” can also describe the overall concept of fake or counterfeit items.

For example, someone might say, “The magician’s tricks were all just clever fakery.”
In a discussion about art forgeries, one might comment, “The art world is full of fakery, it’s important to authenticate pieces before buying.”
A person might warn, “Beware of online scams and fakery, always verify the source before sharing personal information.”

25. Counterfeited

This term specifically refers to the act of creating or producing an imitation or replica of something, usually with the intention of deceiving others. “Counterfeited” is often used in the context of counterfeit money or counterfeit goods.

For instance, someone might say, “The police arrested a group of individuals for counterfeiting money.”
In a discussion about counterfeit products, one might comment, “Counterfeited goods can be dangerous and of poor quality, always buy from reputable sources.”
A person might warn, “Be cautious when accepting cash, there’s a risk of receiving counterfeited bills.”

26. Pseudonymous

This term refers to using a fake name or alias instead of one’s real name. It is often used in online communities or when someone wants to remain anonymous.

For example, a user might comment, “I’m using a pseudonymous account because I don’t want my real name associated with this post.”
In a discussion about online privacy, someone might say, “Using a pseudonymous identity can help protect your personal information.”
A journalist might write, “The author of the book chose to publish under a pseudonymous name to maintain privacy.”

27. Fabricated

This word is used to describe something that is completely false or invented. It implies that the information or story has been created or manufactured.

For instance, if someone tells a false story, you might say, “That’s a completely fabricated tale.”
In a discussion about news reporting, someone might argue, “We need to ensure that we are not spreading fabricated information.”
A person might confess, “I’m sorry, I made up that story. It was completely fabricated.”

28. Falsehood

This term refers to a statement or information that is not true. It implies that someone is intentionally spreading false or misleading information.

For example, if someone tells a lie, you might say, “That’s a blatant falsehood.”
In a political debate, someone might accuse their opponent of spreading falsehoods, saying, “You keep spreading false information to mislead the public.”
A person might admit, “I apologize for the falsehoods I spread. I didn’t realize the information was incorrect.”

29. Disguised

This word describes something that is intentionally made to appear different or deceptive. It implies that someone or something is hiding its true identity.

For instance, if someone is wearing a costume to conceal their identity, you might say, “They are disguised as a clown.”
In a discussion about undercover operations, someone might mention, “The agent was disguised as a janitor to gather information.”
A spy movie might feature a line like, “She entered the party disguised as a waiter to get closer to the target.”

30. Inauthentic

This term describes something that is not genuine or real. It implies that someone or something is pretending to be something it’s not.

For example, if someone is pretending to be happy when they’re actually sad, you might say, “Their smile feels inauthentic.”
In a discussion about social media, someone might comment, “We need to be careful of the inauthentic lives people portray online.”
A person might reflect, “I realized that my behavior was inauthentic, and I needed to be true to myself.”

31. Dummy

This term is used to describe something that is not real or genuine. It can refer to a person, object, or situation that is not what it appears to be.

For example, “That watch is a dummy. It’s not a genuine Rolex.”
In a prank video, someone might say, “I fooled my friends with a dummy phone that looked real.”
A person might describe a counterfeit product by saying, “I bought a dummy purse that looked like a designer brand, but it fell apart after a week.”

32. Bogusky

This slang term is used to describe something that is fake, false, or deceptive in nature. It can be used to describe a person, object, or situation.

For instance, “That website is full of bogusky information. Don’t believe everything you read.”
A person might say, “He’s a bogusky salesman. He promises you the world, but delivers nothing.”
In a discussion about counterfeit products, someone might say, “There’s a whole market for bogusky designer goods.”

33. Fugazi

This term is commonly used to describe something that is fake, counterfeit, or of poor quality. It originated from the Italian-American slang word “fugazi,” meaning “fake” or “not genuine.”

For example, “That diamond ring is fugazi. It’s not real.”
A person might say, “His story sounds fugazi. I don’t believe a word he says.”
In a conversation about knockoff handbags, someone might say, “Be careful when buying online. There are a lot of fugazi bags being sold.”

34. Pseudo-intellectual

This term is used to describe a person who pretends to be intellectual or knowledgeable but lacks genuine intelligence or expertise.

For instance, “He’s just a pseudo-intellectual. He uses big words to sound smart, but he doesn’t really know what he’s talking about.”
In a discussion about philosophy, someone might say, “Don’t be fooled by his pseudo-intellectual ramblings. He’s just regurgitating ideas he read in a book.”
A person might describe a pretentious professor by saying, “He’s known for his pseudo-intellectual lectures that confuse more than they enlighten.”

35. Quackery

This term refers to the promotion of medical or health practices that are unproven, ineffective, or fraudulent. It can also be used more broadly to describe any deceptive or fraudulent practices.

For example, “Those weight loss pills are quackery. They don’t actually work.”
A person might say, “He’s a quackery doctor. He claims to have a cure for everything, but it’s all a scam.”
In a discussion about alternative medicine, someone might say, “There’s a fine line between legitimate treatments and quackery. It’s important to do your research before trying anything.”

36. Shoddy

Shoddy is a slang term used to describe something that is poorly made or of low quality. It can refer to an object, a product, or even a person’s work.

For example, “I bought this cheap watch, but it turned out to be shoddy and broke after a week.”
Someone might say, “The construction of this building is shoddy, with cracks appearing in the walls.”
A person might criticize a friend’s craftsmanship by saying, “Your painting looks shoddy; you need to work on your technique.”

37. Phony-bologna

Phony-bologna is a playful slang term used to describe something or someone that is fake or fraudulent. It is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner.

For instance, “Don’t believe him, he’s just phony-bologna.”
Someone might say, “That website selling designer handbags is phony-bologna; they’re all knockoffs.”
A person might tease a friend by saying, “Your excuse for being late is phony-bologna; I know you were just sleeping in.”

38. Counterfeiter

A counterfeiter is someone who produces fake or fraudulent items, such as counterfeit money, fake designer products, or forged documents.

For example, “The police arrested a counterfeiter who was producing fake passports.”
Someone might say, “Be careful when buying luxury goods online; there are many counterfeiter websites.”
A news article might report, “Authorities busted a major counterfeiter operation, seizing thousands of counterfeit products.”