sophism

noun

soph·​ism ˈsä-ˌfi-zəm How to pronounce sophism (audio)
1
: an argument apparently correct in form but actually invalid
especially : such an argument used to deceive
2

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sophism was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near sophism

Cite this Entry

“Sophism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sophism. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

sophism

noun
soph·​ism ˈsäf-ˌiz-əm How to pronounce sophism (audio)
: a misleading argument that seems reasonable

More from Merriam-Webster on sophism

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!