mistrust
UK: ˌmɪsˈtrʌst | US: ˌmɪsˈtrʌst
n. lack of trust or confidence in someone or something
vt. to regard with suspicion or doubt
The word "mistrust" combines the prefix "mis-" (from Old English "mis-," meaning "wrong" or "badly") with the root "trust" (from Old Norse "traust," meaning "confidence" or "reliance"). The prefix "mis-" often negates or reverses the meaning of the root, as seen in words like "misunderstand" or "mislead." Here, it transforms "trust" into its opposite—distrust or suspicion. This logical pairing reflects a straightforward but powerful linguistic pattern in English, where affixes modify core meanings predictably.
Her constant lies created deep mistrust among her friends.
He couldn’t help but mistrust the stranger’s overly friendly demeanor.
The scandal fueled public mistrust in the government.
A history of broken promises led to mutual mistrust between the two companies.
She eyed the contract with mistrust, sensing hidden clauses.