impostor

noun

im·​pos·​tor im-ˈpä-stər How to pronounce impostor (audio)
variants or imposter
: one that assumes false identity or title for the purpose of deception

Examples of impostor in a Sentence

He claimed he was an experienced pilot, but he turned out to be an impostor. the man who claimed to be a prince turned out to be an impostor
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These kinds of supportive environments can reduce impostor feelings and create space for growth. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025 Once hired, the impostor can install malware to demand ransom from a company, or steal its customer data, trade secrets or funds, according to Balasubramaniyan. Hugh Son, CNBC, 8 Apr. 2025 Business imposter and online shopping scams were the two highest causes reported, with over 1,000 District complaints each. Anna Spiegel, Axios, 17 Mar. 2025 Thus the cashew-milk-cheese-fry lover must be an imposter. Eliana Dockterman, TIME, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for impostor

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin impostor, from Latin imponere

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impostor was in 1564

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Impostor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impostor. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

impostor

noun
im·​pos·​tor
variants or imposter
: a person who pretends to be someone else in order to deceive

Legal Definition

impostor

noun
im·​pos·​tor
variants or imposter
: one that assumes a false identity or title for the purpose of deception : impersonator

More from Merriam-Webster on impostor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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