The meaning of SUBTERFUGE is deception by artifice or stratagem in order to conceal, escape, or evade. How to use subterfuge in a sentence.

Hidden documents whose origins are obscure and whose discovery involves subterfuge grab the headlines.

Subterfuge definition: an artifice or expedient used to evade a rule, escape a consequence, hide something, etc.. See examples of SUBTERFUGE used in a sentence.

1. Deception used to achieve an end: tried to get her to sign the contract by subterfuge. 2. A deceptive stratagem or device: The meeting was a subterfuge to get him out of his office while …

There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun subterfuge, two of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

Definition of subterfuge noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Nov 1, 2025 · subterfuge (countable and uncountable, plural subterfuges) (countable) An indirect or deceptive device or stratagem; a blind. Refers especially to war and diplomatics. quotations …