make-believe

[ meyk-bi-leev ]

noun

1. pretense, especially of an innocent or playful kind; playacting; fantasy:

   the make-believe of children playing.

2. a pretender; a person who pretends.

adjective

1. pretended; feigned; imaginary; made-up; unreal:

   a make-believe world of fantasy.

make believe

verb

1. to pretend or enact a fantasy

   the children made believe they were doctors

noun

1. 1. a fantasy, pretence, or unreality
   2. ( as modifier )

      a make-believe world

2. a person who pretends

Word History and Origins

Origin of make-believe¹

First recorded in 1805–15

Idioms and Phrases

Pretend, as in Let's make believe we're elves . This expression in effect means making oneself believe in an illusion. [Early 1700s]

Example Sentences

He is a make-believe tough guy, built out of special effects and the comedic acting skills of Bruce Willis.

From Salon

Or to get mad about "cancel culture" or make-believe slights from liberals.

From Salon

Their mothers were friends and colleagues who raised both boys in the theater world, which encourages play and make-believe.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s silly. It’s make-believe. Obviously, we’re getting closer to educating everyone—”

From Los Angeles Times

Our make-believe businessman, it would seem, resents those who understand the actual art of the deal.

From Salon