What does the prefix 'pseud-' indicate?

The prefix 'pseud-' originates from the Greek word "pseudes," which translates to "false" or "deceptive." It is commonly used in English to denote something that is not genuine or is a pretender in some form. For example, the term 'pseudoscience' refers to beliefs or practices that claim to be scientific but lack supporting evidence or methodology consistent with actual science. This demonstrates how 'pseud-' effectively indicates falsehood or deception. Understanding this prefix is crucial for interpreting and analyzing terminology across various disciplines, especially when distinguishing between legitimate concepts and those that are misrepresented.