Canard
/ˈkænɑːrd/noun
A false or unfounded rumor or story.
He dismissed the allegations as a political canard.
Often appears as...
- spread a canard
- dismiss a canard
Usage tips
Formal
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3False News
Used to describe news or stories that are not true but may be believed by some.
The celebrity was the victim of a canard stating she had left the country.
Pro Tip 2/3Malicious Intent
Often spread intentionally to deceive or harm someone's reputation.
The politician's opponent used a canard to damage his credibility.
Pro Tip 3/3Verify First
Always fact-check before believing or spreading information labeled as a canard.
She realized the story was a canard after checking the facts.
Compare with
deceitfabricatefalsehoodhoaxliemisrepresentmythrumour
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