pretend
UK[prɪˈtɛnd]US[prɪˈtɛnd]
v
To behave as if something is true when you know that it is not, especially in order to deceive people or as a game.
v
To claim or give the appearance of something that is not true, often falsely.
Morpheme Breakdown
pre
tend
pre
before, in front
tend
stretch, aim
Etymology
The word 'pretend' originates from the Latin verb praetendere, a compound of prae- ("before") and tendere ("to stretch"). Its literal meaning was "to stretch in front," as in holding forth a curtain or a claim as a screen. This evolved into the figurative sense of "to put forward as an excuse or allegation," or "to lay claim to" something, often falsely. Over time, the sense of putting forward a false front solidified into its modern meaning of feigning or acting as if something is the case when it is not.
Analysis
Structure: pre (before, in front) + tend (stretch, aim)
- pre: A prefix from Latin prae-, meaning "before, in front of." It indicates priority in time, place, order, or importance.
- tend: A root from Latin tendere, meaning "to stretch, strive, aim, extend." It conveys the sense of directing effort or attention toward something.
Examples
The children love to pretend they are pirates on a treasure hunt.
He tried to pretend he wasn't nervous, but his hands were shaking.
You cannot pretend ignorance of the rules to avoid the consequences.