Definition of the word delusion

The word "delusion" has its roots in the Latin word "deludere," which means "to deceive" or "to mock." This Latin term was derived from "delus," meaning "deceiver" or "liar," and the suffix "-ion," which forms a noun indicating a state or condition. In the 15th century, the Latin word "deludere" was borrowed into Middle English as "delusione," which referred to a state of being deceived or confused. Over time, the spelling evolved into "delusion," and its meaning expanded to include a false or distorted belief that is held despite being contradicted by reality. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the first recorded use of the word "delusion" in English dates back to the year 1479. Today, the word is widely used in psychology, philosophy, and everyday language to describe a belief or perception that is not supported by evidence or is patently false.