Apocryphal (adjective)

Of doubtful authenticity, although widely circulated as being true.

Origin:

Late middle english: from late latin apocryphus, from greek apokryphos "hidden, obscure", from apo- "away" + kryphos "hidden".

Examples:

1. The story of the lost treasure is probably apocryphal.
2. The apocryphal letter attributed to the famous politician turned out to be a forgery.
3. Many of the quotes attributed to the philosopher are considered apocryphal.
4. The apocryphal gospel was not included in the canon of scripture.
5. The apocryphal account of the saint's life was later discredited by scholars.