pretender

[ pri-ten-der ]

noun

1. a person who pretends, especially for a dishonest purpose.
2. an aspirant or claimant (often followed by to ):

   a pretender to the throne.

3. a person who makes unjustified or false claims, statements, etc., as about personal status, abilities, intentions, or the like:

   a pretender to literary genius.

pretender

/ prɪˈtɛndə /

noun

1. a person who pretends or makes false allegations
2. a person who mounts a claim, as to a throne or title

Word History and Origins

Origin of pretender¹

First recorded in 1585–95; pretend + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Support from the Pretenders and Alex G makes this one of the best stadium rock bills of the summer.

From Seattle Times

One of his highlights is The Pretenders playing on Thekla last year as part of Independent Venue Week, which he says was a "huge show" unlikely to be repeated.

From BBC

Rock journalist and producer Jon Landau inducted Jackson Browne, the American singer-songwriter who has crafted some of popular music’s most introspective compositions, including “These Days,” “Doctor My Eyes” and “The Pretender.”

From Salon

Johnny Marr has long been known as one of music's greatest guitarists, working hand in glove with singers in bands like The Smiths, Electronic, The The, Modest Mouse, The Cribs, The Pretenders and many more.

From BBC

The Violent Femmes’ victory as the Pretenders’ impromptu opening act helped to establish the momentum that led to the production of their inaugural album.

From Salon