counterfeit

Everyday

1. Made to look exactly like something real in order to trick people; fake, like counterfeit money. tree →
2. (noun) A fake copy. tree →
3. (verb) To make fake money or goods illegally. tree →
4. To counterfeit can also mean to pretend to be someone by copying their voice or looks. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and money lessons, banknotes have special features (holograms, watermarks) to stop counterfeit notes. In news, counterfeit goods like fake trainers or medicines can be dangerous. Phrases: "counterfeit money", "counterfeit goods", "counterfeit notes".

Examples

• The shop checks for counterfeit £20 notes. tree →
• Counterfeit toys may not be safety tested. tree →
• Making counterfeit money is a serious crime. tree →
• The watermark showed the note was counterfeit. tree →
• Police seized thousands of counterfeit watches. tree →
• The forger counterfeited old coins. tree →
• “Your grandchild, Little Red Riding-Hood,” replied the Wolf, counterfeiting her voice; “who has brought you a custard and a little pot of butter sent you by mamma.” tree →

Note

Pronounced "KOWN-ter-fit". Spelling trap: "-feit" (ei), not "-fiet". Counterfeit medicine is dangerous; only buy medicine from proper pharmacies.