incertitude
UK: ɪnˈsɜːtɪtjuːd | US: ɪnˈsɜːrtɪtuːd
n. a state of uncertainty or doubt
n. lack of confidence or decisiveness
incertitude = in<not> + cert<sure> + itude<noun suffix>
- in: Prefix meaning "not" (from Latin in-).
- cert: Root meaning "sure" or "certain" (from Latin certus).
- itude: Noun suffix indicating a state or condition (from Latin -itudo).
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin incertitudo, combining in- (negation) + certus (fixed, sure) + -tudo (abstract noun suffix). The word entered Middle French as incertitude before being adopted into English in the 16th century. It reflects the logical progression from "not certain" to a formalized state of doubt.
The incertitude of the election results kept the nation on edge.
His incertitude about the project led to delays in decision-making.
She faced the future with incertitude, unsure of her next steps.
The scientist’s incertitude was evident in her hesitant conclusions.
Political incertitude often destabilizes financial markets.