The term 'Empty Pretense' can be broken down into two words, 'SHAM' and 'CHARADE'. A SHAM is a false show or pretense, while a CHARADE is an absurd pretense or deception. Together, these two words describe a situation in which someone is pretending to be something they are not, or is pretending to have feelings or beliefs that they do not actually possess. This type of behavior is often used to manipulate or deceive others.