DictionaryInternet culture

Deepfake

Definition

Synthetic audio, video, or imagery that convincingly imitates a real person's appearance or voice.

Example
The viral clip was a deepfake made to look like a celebrity endorsement.
How it is used

The term is most important when manipulated media could deceive viewers, damage reputations, or enable fraud.

Origin and context

Deepfake combines deep learning and fake and became widely known after face-swapping communities emerged in the late 2010s.

Common variations

deepfake video

Synthetic moving footage of a person.

deepfake audio

Generated or altered speech imitating someone.

Frequently asked questions
Are all edited videos deepfakes?

No. The term usually involves AI-generated or AI-manipulated realistic impersonation.

How can deepfakes be harmful?

They can enable scams, misinformation, harassment, and nonconsensual imagery.

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