The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

delusion

IPA:

Dictionary definition of delusion

A false belief or idea that is not supported by any evidence or rational thinking.
"The man was suffering from a delusion that he was invincible."

Detailed meaning of delusion

It is a fixed and unshakeable belief that persists despite contradictory evidence. Delusions can be caused by mental disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or they can arise from other factors such as drug use, sleep deprivation, or extreme stress. Delusions can take many forms, such as the belief that one is being persecuted, that one has extraordinary abilities or powers, or that one's thoughts are being broadcast to others. Delusions can be distressing and disruptive to daily life, and it is important to seek medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing them.

Example sentences containing delusion

1. His grandiose delusion led to unrealistic expectations.
2. Psychologists study the origins of delusions.
3. Believing in a miracle cure can be a dangerous delusion.
4. She was under the delusion that success would come easily.
5. Overcoming a delusion requires introspection and therapy.
6. Delusions can distort one's perception of reality.

History and etymology of delusion

The noun 'delusion' has its etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'delusio,' which comes from 'deludere,' a combination of 'de-' (meaning 'down' or 'away') and 'ludere' (meaning 'to play' or 'to mock'). Therefore, 'delusion' etymologically signifies a 'mocking away' or 'playing false.' In modern usage, 'delusion' describes a false belief or idea that is not supported by any evidence or rational thinking. The etymology of 'delusion' underscores the idea of being led astray or deceived by false beliefs, highlighting the cognitive distortion that leads individuals to accept and maintain irrational or unfounded notions.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun delusion:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of delusion

1. The conspiracy theory was a shared delusion among followers.
2. Coping with a loved one's delusions can be challenging.
3. Some mental illnesses are characterized by persistent delusions.
4. He lived in a world of self-created delusion.
5. Delusions of grandeur can lead to reckless behavior.
6. People with delusions may resist seeking help.
7. Recognizing and addressing delusions is crucial for recovery.
8. Her belief in ghosts was a harmless delusion.
9. The delusion of eternal youth is a societal obsession.
10. Delusions can be a symptom of various mental disorders.
11. Society often perpetuates harmful delusions about beauty.
12. The cult leader exploited their followers' delusions.
13. Delusions can be triggered by extreme stress.
14. Challenging someone's delusion requires sensitivity and empathy.
15. The man was suffering from a delusion that he was being followed.
16. She had a delusion that she was a famous celebrity.
17. His delusion that he could control the weather was concerning.
18. The patient's delusions made it difficult for her to trust anyone.
19. The cult leader's delusions led his followers to harm themselves.
20. The company's delusion that they were invincible led to their downfall.
21. The politician's delusion that he was always right made him unpopular.
22. His delusion that he could speak to the dead made him the target of ridicule.
23. The writer's delusion that his work was perfect prevented him from improving.
24. Her delusion that she was immortal led to reckless behavior.
25. The artist's delusion that he was a misunderstood genius made him difficult to work with.
26. Their delusion that they could accomplish everything on their own led to burnout and exhaustion.