delusive, a.
(dɪˈl(j)uːsɪv)
[f. dēlūs-, ppl. stem of L. dēlūdĕre to delude: see -ive.]
1. Having the attribute of deluding, characterized by delusion, tending to delude, deceptive.
| 1605 B. Jonson Volpone i. i, A fox Stretch'd on the earth, with fine delusive sleights, Mocking a gaping crow. 1638 Sir T. Herbert Trav. (ed. 2) 110 In it [Arabia] was hatcht the delusive Alcaron. 1736 Butler Anal. Relig. i. i. 16 Imagination..that forward delusive Faculty. 1759 Johnson Rasselas xx, Appearances are delusive. 1855 Prescott Philip II, I. iv. iv. 440 Holding out delusive promises of succour. 1869 Phillips Vesuv. iii. 88 The lava had a delusive aspect of yielding to any impression. |
2. Of the nature of a delusion.
| 1645 Milton Tetrach. (1851) 156 The breed of Centaures..the fruits of a delusive mariage. 1833 Longfellow Coplas de Manrique xiii, Behold of what delusive worth The bubbles we pursue on earth. |