Dictionary entry

Imposture

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Im‐pos″ture (?), n. [L. impostura: cf. F. imposture. See Impone.] The act or conduct of an impostor; deception practiced under a false or assumed character; fraud or imposition; cheating.

From new legends

And fill the world with follies and impostures. Johnson.

Syn. — Cheat; fraud; trick; imposition; delusion.