Meaning of the word counterfeit in English

What does counterfeit mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

counterfeit

US /ˈkaʊn.t̬ɚ.fɪt/

UK /ˈkaʊn.tə.fɪt/

a fraudulent imitation of something else; a forgery

Example:

•

The police seized a large amount of counterfeit currency.

•

He was arrested for selling counterfeit goods.

Synonym:

fake forgery imitation sham bogus

made in exact imitation of something valuable or important with the intention to deceive or defraud

Example:

•

The detective discovered a counterfeit passport.

•

They were caught producing counterfeit designer bags.

Synonym:

fake forged bogus spurious phony

imitate fraudulently

Example:

•

Criminals often try to counterfeit high-value banknotes.

•

It's illegal to counterfeit official documents.

Synonym:

forge fake imitate reproduce copy