The Collaborative International Dictionary
Specious \Spe"cious\, a. [L. speciosusgood-looking, beautiful, specious, fr. species look, show, appearance; cf. F. sp['e]coeux. See Species.]
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Presenting a pleasing appearance; pleasing in form or look; showy.
Some [serpents] specious and beautiful to the eye.
--Bp. Richardson.The rest, far greater part, Will deem in outward rites and specious forms Religion satisfied.
--Milton. -
Apparently right; superficially fair, just, or correct, but not so in reality; appearing well at first view; plausible; as, specious reasoning; a specious argument.
Misled for a moment by the specious names of religion, liberty, and property.
--Macaulay.In consequence of their greater command of specious expression.
--J. Morley.Syn: Plausible; showy; ostensible; colorable; feasible. See Plausible. [1913 Webster] -- Spe"xious*ly, adv. -- Spe"cious*ness, n.