stolen valor

English

Etymology

Coined by American writer B. G. Burkett in 1998.

Noun

stolen valor (uncountable) (US)

1. An instance of a person falsely claiming to have served in the military, or of a member of the military falsely claiming to have served in ways they did not.
2. (law) An instance of stolen valor in which the perpetrator has the intention to receive money, donations, discounts, or other benefits.
3. The respect or benefits so gained.
4. (figurative) Any instance of falsely claiming to be of a respected group to gain that respect.