Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

feign-surprise

verb phrase

/feɪn səˈpraɪz/

Definition

To pretend to be surprised or shocked, often when one is actually not.

Examples

She feigned surprise when she received the unexpected gift.
During the surprise party, he feigned surprise even though he had seen the decorations earlier.
“Oh, really? I had no idea!” she exclaimed, feigning surprise at the news.

Meaning

Feigning surprise typically refers to the act of putting on an expression or demeanor of astonishment or disbelief, usually in a sarcastic or ironic context.