incredulity
UK: ˌɪnkrəˈdjuːləti | US: ˌɪnkrəˈduːləti
n. a state of unwillingness or inability to believe something
n. skepticism or disbelief
incredulity = in<not> + cred<believe> + ulity<noun suffix>
- in (Latin prefix "in-" meaning "not")
- cred (from Latin "credere," meaning "to believe")
- ulity (noun-forming suffix derived from Latin "-ulitas," indicating a state or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word "incredulity" traces back to Latin roots. The prefix "in-" negates the core idea, while "cred" (from "credere") conveys belief. Combined with the suffix "-ulity," it forms a noun describing the state of disbelief. The term evolved through Middle French "incrédulité" before entering English, retaining its logical structure: "not" + "believe" + "state of."
Her incredulity was evident when she heard the outrageous claim.
He met the news with incredulity, refusing to accept it without proof.
The scientist's incredulity toward the theory sparked further debate.
Their faces showed pure incredulity as the magician performed the trick.
Despite the evidence, his incredulity remained unshaken.