doubt
UK: daʊt | US: daʊt
n. a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction
vt. to question the truth or validity of something
doubt = doub<two> + t<verb suffix>
- doub<two>: From Latin dubitare (to hesitate), influenced by Old French douter, derived from Latin duo (two), reflecting the idea of wavering between two options.
- t<verb suffix>: A common verb-forming suffix in Old French, retained in English.
Etymology Origin:
The word "doubt" traces back to the Latin dubitare, meaning "to hesitate" or "to be of two minds." This reflects the original concept of uncertainty—being torn between two possibilities. The spelling evolved through Old French (douter), where the "b" was reintroduced to align with Latin dubitare, emphasizing the "two-ness" of hesitation. The modern English form preserves this duality in both spelling and meaning.
She had no doubt about his honesty.
I doubt we’ll finish the project on time.
His sudden kindness cast doubt on his motives.
There’s some doubt as to whether the plan will work.
Never doubt the power of perseverance.