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to trick someone into believing something that is not true
a person who is easily tricked or deceived
What is the origin of the term "dupe" and how is it used?
"Dupe" is an English term that comes from the French duper, meaning to deceive, and it has been used since at least the 17th century. It describes a person who is easily tricked, fooled, or manipulated. The term appears in everyday speech, literature, and journalism, often to highlight gullibility or naivety. It is mildly derogatory, pointing out a flaw or vulnerability, but it is not highly offensive and can be used humorously or critically depending on context.
a cheaper or imitation version of a designer or high-end product
What does "dupe" mean in shopping slang?
The structure is a clipped shortening of "duplicate," removing the middle syllables to create a quicker, more casual noun. It is used to describe a cheaper or imitation version of a designer or high end product, such as makeup, clothing, handbags, or home goods, that looks similar but costs much less. People typically say "This is a dupe for that $50 lipstick" or "I found the perfect dupe" when sharing budget friendly alternatives on social media.
