meretricious etymology

Etymology:

• From Latin: meretricius, meaning "of or like a prostitute"
• Ultimately derived from the Latin word meretrix, meaning "prostitute"

Meaning:

• Showing or characterized by a flashy and showy appearance without real value or substance
• Deceivingly attractive or charming, often to conceal something undesirable
• Spurious or false, especially in regards to arguments or claims

Origin:

The word meretricius was used in ancient Roman society to describe something connected to a prostitute or their conduct. This negative connotation carried over into English usage, where it acquired its meaning of superficial attractiveness or deception.

Usage:

• The politician's meretricious promises appealed to voters, but failed to deliver on their substance.
• The salesman's meretricious display of enthusiasm hid the fact that the product was defective.
• The author's meretricious prose concealed the lack of depth in their ideas.

Synonyms:

• Specious
• Deceptive
• Showy
• Flashy
• False
• Sham

meretricious relate terms

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