apocryphal implies an unknown or dubious source or origin or may imply that the thing itself is dubious or inaccurate.

APOCRYPHAL definition: of doubtful authorship or authenticity. See examples of apocryphal used in a sentence.

The adjective apocryphal is commonly used in modern English to refer to any text or story considered to be of dubious veracity or authority, although it may contain some moral truth.

Definition of apocryphal adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

APOCRYPHAL definition: 1. An apocryphal story is probably not true although it is often told and believed by some people…. Learn more.

Feb 21, 2026 · Adjective apocryphal (comparative more apocryphal, superlative most apocryphal) (Christianity) Of, or pertaining to, the Apocrypha.

apocryphal, adj. & n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

Definition of apocryphal. English dictionary and integrated thesaurus for learners, writers, teachers, and students with advanced, intermediate, and beginner levels.

Jan 30, 2026 · apocrypha, (from Greek apokryptein, “to hide away”), in biblical literature, works outside an accepted canon of scripture. The history of the term’s usage indicates that it referred to a body of …

“Apocryphal” meaning “of doubtful authenticity” is first attested in English in 1590. But it is also probable that these apocryphal versions are based on a genuine original. This is the most important of all the …