Sophism

n. [Fr. sophisme, Pr. sophisme, sofisme, Sp. sofisma, It. sofisma, sofismo, soffismo, Lat. sophisma, Gr. σοφισμα, from σοφίζειν, to make wise, σοφίζεσθαι, to be or become wise, to play the sophist, from σοφός, wise.] The doctrine or avowed 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.” Watts.

Let us first rid ourselves of sophisms, those of depraved men, and those of heartless philosophers. I. Taylor.