(law) The tort or fraudulent representation of a material fact made with knowledge of its falsity, or recklessly, or without reasonable grounds for believing its truth and with intent to induce reliance on it; the plaintiff justifiably relies on the deception, to his injury.
“But how was Rizpah to excuse her own connivance in this terrible deceit that had been practiced against Athaliah?”
“Elizabeth, honey, I know it's wrong, but I got to pull off this deceit, you see. If Lamont isn't fooled, one of those coffins he brought will be fitted for me.”
“He confronted Querul, told him it was all lies, and that he would expose his deceit to the world.”