English Explanatory Dictionary

crocodile tear

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A tear shed insincerely, in a false display of sorrow or some other emotion.
  2. A display of tears that is forced or false.

Pronunciation

/ˈkɹɒ.kə.daɪl ˌtɪə/ /ˈkɹɑ.kə.daɪl ˌtɪɹ/ en-au-crocodile tear.ogg

Word forms

crocodile tear crocodile tears

Etymology

From the ancient belief that crocodiles shed tears while consuming their prey.

Related words

artificial tear hypocrisy insincerity turn on the waterworks white women tears
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