delusion

Definition

A false or unfounded belief held with conviction despite contradictory evidence or reality; in psychology, a symptom of certain mental health conditions where perception of reality is distorted.

Example Usage

His belief that he was a movie star despite never having acted was clearly a delusion.

Origin

From Latin 'deludere' (to play false, mock), entered English in the 14th century.

Fun Fact

Delusions differ from hallucinations (false perceptions) and differ from simple mistaken beliefs in their resistance to correction with evidence.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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