Disinformation
Deliberately false or misleading information spread with intent to deceive β misinformation with intent. (see also Information or Misinformation)
How We Say It
disΒ·inΒ·fΙrΒ·mayΒ·shΙn
Where It Comes From
Translated from Russian dezinformatsiya β a term used by Soviet intelligence for the deliberate planting of false information in enemy information environments. Entered English through Cold War intelligence literature in the 1950s.
How It's Been Used
Distinct from misinformation (false information spread without intent to deceive) and propaganda (persuasion, not necessarily false). In practice the distinction is hard to maintain β the same false claim can be disinformation at the source and misinformation as it spreads through people who believe it. Used in contemporary political debate so broadly that it has lost some precision. The original Cold War meaning β state-sponsored deliberate falsification β remains the most useful anchor.