The word "delusional" describes a state of having false beliefs or opinions that are firmly held despite evidence to the contrary. A person who is delusional may believe things that are not based in reality, often displaying an irrational or distorted perception of what is true. This term is frequently used in psychological contexts to refer to certain mental health conditions, where individuals may experience disconnection from reality.
The word "delusional" comes from the Latin root "deludere," which means "to play false" or "to deceive." The prefix "de-" indicates negation, while "lusus" means "play" or "mock." The term entered the English language in the early 20th century, becoming associated with various psychological disorders.