Ruse (noun)

1. A clever trick or scheme to deceive someone.
2. A trick or scheme used to deceive someone; a stratagem.

Origin:

Late 16th century: from french, from old french reus(e) "trick", from reuser "to use again".

Examples:

1. He used a ruse to escape from prison.
2. The ruse worked and the enemy was caught off guard.
3. She used a ruse to get what she wanted.
4. The ruse was simple but effective.
5. The ruse was to pretend to be a customer.