illusionary

[ ih-loo-zhuh-ner-ee ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by illusions; deceptive; misleading.

Other Words From

• non·il·lu·sion·al adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of illusionary¹

First recorded in 1885–90; illusion + -ary

Example Sentences

As computer scientists have warned us, the algorithms behind AI systems are capable of inexplicable mistakes and "hallucinations" — seemingly reasonable results that are entirely illusionary.

From Salon

Take the leaf top, which is more a work of illusionary art than a going out top, crafted from an actual Alocasia Macrorrhiza leaf bonded with jersey.

From Los Angeles Times

The four decades of failure of this organization, with the occasional illusionary success mixed in, has left Washington basketball fans disgusted — if they care that much anymore.

From Washington Times

That love has been buried by more than 40 years of neglect, save for the occasional illusionary moments of promise.

From Washington Times

"Or," Alan tells his illusionary therapist, "maybe it's telling me, 'Don't die like a f**king sheep.'"

From Salon