Definition & Meaning of "canard"

What is a "canard"?

A canard is a false or misleading story, rumor, or piece of information that is spread deliberately to deceive or mislead others, often for political, financial, or other reasons. In journalism, a canard refers to a piece of news that is not true or is exaggerated, typically aimed at harming someone's reputation or causing confusion. It can be spread through various forms of media, including newspapers, television, or social media. A canard differs from a mistake or misunderstanding, as it is intentionally fabricated or distorted to serve a specific purpose. Journalists aim to avoid spreading canards by verifying information before reporting it and relying on credible sources. The spread of canards can harm trust in the media and contribute to misinformation.