SOPHISM

sophism, sophistry, sophistication

(noun) a deliberately invalid argument displaying ingenuity in reasoning in the hope of deceiving someone

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology 1

Noun

sophism (countable and uncountable, plural sophisms)

A method of teaching using the techniques of philosophy and rhetoric.

(informal) A flawed argument, superficially correct in its reasoning, usually designed to deceive.

(informal) An intentional fallacy.

Etymology 2

Noun

sophism (uncountable)

Archaic spelling of Sufism.

Source: Wiktionary

Soph"ism, n. Etym: [F. sophisme, L. sophisma, fr. Gr.

Definition: The doctrine or mode of reasoning practiced by a sophist; hence, any fallacy designed to deceive. When a false argument puts on the appearance of a true one, then it is properly called a sophism, or "fallacy". I. Watts. Let us first rid ourselves of sophisms, those of depraved men, and those of heartless philosophers. I. Taylor.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition