illusion
US /ɪˈluː.ʒən/
UK /ɪˈluː.ʒən/
1.
a thing that is or is likely to be wrongly perceived or interpreted by the senses
:
•
The magician created an amazing illusion.
•
The desert heat created an illusion of water on the road.
2.
a false idea or belief
:
•
He was under the illusion that he could sing.
•
Many people live with the illusion of control over their lives.