# fool's gold

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. A mineral or other substance often mistaken for gold; mainly iron pyrite.
2. Something worthless that deceptively seems valuable.

## Etymology
From the idea that the mineral fools people (especially those who are fools) into mistakenly thinking that they have found gold. Regarding minerals that were named for deceptive appearance that prompts confusion with others, compare also apatite.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/fool-s-gold