Laracy

Laracy (pronounced lar-uh-see) is a fictional term used, primarily in online contexts, to describe the act of intentionally creating and disseminating misinformation, disinformation, or blatant falsehoods, often for amusement, personal gain, or to provoke a reaction. It differs from simple mistakes or misunderstandings in that it involves a deliberate attempt to mislead others. While closely related to terms like "trolling" and "hoaxing," laracy often emphasizes the creation of the false information itself, rather than just its spread or the reactions it elicits. The term is not widely recognized or formally defined in academic or professional fields, and its usage is largely confined to online communities. The etymology of "laracy" is unclear, though it may be a portmanteau of "larceny" (suggesting the stealing of truth) and "fallacy" (highlighting the flawed nature of the information). The severity and impact of laracy can range from harmless pranks to harmful manipulation, depending on the nature of the fabricated information and the target audience.