ξεγελώ
Lemma: ξεγελώ
Translation: to deceive; to fool; to trick; to mislead (verb)
Etymology: Compound of the prefix 'ξε-' (indicating reversal or removal) and 'γελώ' (to laugh). The combination creates the meaning of making someone believe something false, literally 'to un-laugh' or 'to make someone the object of laughter'.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ξε-' (un-) + 'γελώ' (laugh) = making someone the fool (the one being laughed at)
- Remember 'gel' in the middle sounds like 'gull-ible'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Often used in both serious and playful contexts, from light-hearted pranks to more serious deceptions. Commonly appears in Greek folklore and proverbs about trickery and cunning.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'γελώ' means 'to laugh', 'ξεγελώ' means 'to deceive'
Confused word:
Γελάω με το αστείο.
I'm laughing at the joke.
Notes: The prefix 'ξε-' completely changes the meaning from positive (laughing) to negative (deceiving)
Mnemonic: Adding 'ξε-' transforms laughing into making others the object of laughter (fooling them)