/euh pok"reuh feuh/ , n. ( often used with a sing. v. )
1. ( cap. ) a group of 14 books, not considered canonical, included in the Septuagint and the Vulgate as part of the Old Testament, but usually omitted from Protestant editions of the Bible. See table under Bible .
2. various religious writings of uncertain origin regarded by some as inspired, but rejected by most authorities.
3. writings, statements, etc., of doubtful authorship or authenticity. Cf. canon 1 (defs. 6, 7, 9).
[ 1350-1400; ME apokryph- (base of apokrýptein to hide away; see APO-, CRYPT) + -os adj. suffix ]