False pretence is a term used to describe an act of deception or fraud. It can involve pretending to be someone else, or presenting false information as true. The term false pretence can be broken down into three words: CHARADE (7 letters), SHAM (4 letters), and DISGUISE (8 letters). A CHARADE is an elaborate or exaggerated display of behavior, often done to deceive others. A SHAM is an act or object that is not genuine or authentic, and is intended to deceive. A DISGUISE is a way of changing one's appearance or behavior in order to conceal one's identity.