1. A game: This is the most common meaning. A charade is a party game where players act out a word or phrase without speaking, using only gestures and mime. The other players try to guess what they are acting out.
2. A pretense or a deception: This meaning comes from the fact that the actions in a charade game are a pretense of something else. In this sense, "charade" implies something that is insincere or superficial, like a political campaign that is full of empty promises.
Here are some examples of how the word "charade" can be used:
* "We played charades at the party last night." (This refers to the game.)
* "Their marriage was a charade from the beginning." (This implies that their marriage was not genuine.)
* "The peace talks were just a charade." (This implies that the talks were not serious.)
In general, "charade" is a word that suggests a lack of authenticity or sincerity.