# doctored

/ˈdɑktɝd/ (US) · /dˈɒktəd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/doctored
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

to change a photo or document to hide the truth or make it look different. You use this when someone edits a picture to remove or add something.

For teachers: to alter a photograph, document, or recording to conceal or fabricate information. Often implies a deceptive or fraudulent intent.

## Examples

- The suspect provided a doctored photo to hide the damage.
- The journalist discovered that the evidence was a doctored image meant to mislead the public.
- Forensic experts were called in to determine whether the signature on the contract had been doctored or if the document was entirely genuine.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.