confidence
UK: ˈkɒnfɪdəns | US: ˈkɑːnfɪdəns
n. 1. A feeling of self-assurance arising from appreciation of one's abilities.
n. 2. The state of trusting someone or something; reliance.
n. 3. A secret or private matter shared with someone in trust.
confidence = con<with> + fid<trust> + ence<noun suffix>
- con<with>: From Latin cum, meaning "with" or "together."
- fid<trust>: From Latin fidere (to trust), root of fides (faith).
- ence<noun suffix>: Forms abstract nouns indicating a state or quality (e.g., "dependence").
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin confidentia (trust, assurance), confidence combines con- (intensifying "togetherness") and fidere (to trust). The word originally emphasized mutual trust (e.g., sharing secrets) before broadening to include self-assurance. Its evolution mirrors the interplay between external reliance and internal belief.
She spoke with confidence during the presentation.
His confidence in her abilities was unwavering.
They shared a confidence about their future plans.
Losing the game shook his confidence temporarily.
The team’s confidence grew after their first victory.