Apocryphal

Referring to a story or statement of doubtful authenticity, although often believed to be true; of questionable authorship or origin. Often used to describe religious texts not included in the official canon, or historical accounts lacking definitive proof. The term implies a degree of uncertainty and should be viewed with caution. It suggests the narrative's origins are shrouded in mystery, its veracity unverified, or its relation to established sources is ambiguous. The term's use indicates the account might be legendary, fictitious, or derived from an unreliable source.

Apocryphal meaning with examples

• The article contained an Apocryphal anecdote about the CEO's early career, spread without any corroborating evidence, and of questionable origins.
• Many legends surround the life of the saint; historians dismiss several as Apocryphal tales intended to enhance his mystic appeal to devotees.
• The discovery of the so-called "lost gospel" generated buzz; it was determined quickly to be an Apocryphal text and not genuine.
• Despite the popular story, there's no reliable evidence to suggest that this event actually happened; It appears to be an Apocryphal piece.
• She presented an Apocryphal version of her achievements, embellishing minor details that had never occurred during the event.