insecure
UK: ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊə | US: ˌɪnsɪˈkjʊr
adj. lacking confidence or assurance; uncertain
adj. not firmly fixed; liable to fail or give way
adj. (of a system or place) vulnerable to attack or intrusion
The word "insecure" combines the Latin prefix "in-" (meaning "not") with the root "secure," derived from Latin "securus" ("se" = without + "cura" = care). Originally, "secure" meant "free from care or danger." By adding the negating prefix "in-," the term evolved to signify "not safe" or "lacking stability," reflecting both physical and emotional vulnerability. Over time, it expanded to describe systems (e.g., data) prone to breaches.
She felt insecure about her performance at work.
The old bridge was structurally insecure and needed repairs.
An insecure password can easily be hacked.
His loud laughter often masked his insecure nature.
The company’s financial future seems insecure due to market fluctuations.