apocryphal Definition
of doubtful authenticity, although widely circulated as being true.
Using apocryphal: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "apocryphal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The story of the haunted house turned out to be apocryphal.
Example
The apocryphal tale of George Washington chopping down a cherry tree is not true.
Example
There are many apocryphal stories about the origins of the city.
apocryphal Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with apocryphal
a book of the Bible or other religious writings that is not considered genuine by scholars
Example
The Gospel of Thomas is an apocryphal book that was not included in the New Testament.
a story that is widely circulated but is of doubtful authenticity
Example
The apocryphal story of the Loch Ness Monster has been around for decades.
a text that is of doubtful authenticity or authorship
Example
The Book of Enoch is an apocryphal text that is not considered part of the Bible.
Origins of apocryphal
from Greek 'apokryphos', meaning 'hidden'
Summary: apocryphal in Brief
'Apocryphal' [uh-pok-ruh-fuhl] refers to something that is of doubtful authenticity, although it is widely circulated as being true. It is often used to describe stories or texts that are not considered genuine by scholars. Examples include the apocryphal tale of George Washington chopping down a cherry tree and the apocryphal Book of Enoch. Synonyms for 'apocryphal' include 'fictitious,' 'untrue,' and 'false.'