Langimage
English

insincere

|in/sin/cere|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌɪn.sɪnˈsɪr/

🇬🇧

/ˌɪn.sɪnˈsɪə/

not genuine

Etymology
Etymology Information

'insincere' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'insincerus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'sincerus' meant 'clean, pure, or genuine.'

Historical Evolution

'insincerus' transformed into the French word 'insincère,' and eventually became the modern English word 'insincere' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'not pure or genuine,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not expressing genuine feelings.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

not expressing genuine feelings; not being honest or truthful.

His apology seemed insincere.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39