canard

/kænɑːrd/ or /kəˈnɑːrd/

Definitions

1. noun

A false or misleading statement, often used as a propaganda tactic; a rumor or unverified report, especially one spread by the media.

“The politician’s office denied the canard that she was planning to resign.”

2. noun

A decoy or a lure, especially one used to distract or mislead.

“The bird hunter used a canard to distract the wild goose from its nest.”

3. noun

A type of flying boat or seaplane.

“The canard was used for transporting people across the lake.”

4. noun

A type of pastry, typically filled with meat or vegetables.

“The French chef served a delicious canard for the holiday meal.”

5. verb

To spread a false or misleading rumor or statement.

“The journalist was accused of canarding the politician’s opponent.”

Synonyms

  • rumor
  • tall tale
  • urban legend
  • whisper

Antonyms

  • accuracy
  • fact
  • reality
  • truth