suspicion
UK: səˈspɪʃən | US: səˈspɪʃən
n. a feeling or belief that someone is guilty of wrongdoing without definite proof
n. cautious distrust or skepticism toward something
n. a slight trace or hint of something
The word "suspicion" originates from the Latin suspicionem (a mistrust or doubt), derived from suspicere (to look up at, mistrust). The root sus- (a variant of sub-, meaning "under") + specere (to look) implies "looking at secretly" or "viewing with distrust." Over time, the term evolved in Old French as sospeçon, later entering Middle English as suspicioun, retaining its core meaning of distrust or doubt. The suffix -ion nominalizes the action or state, solidifying its modern usage.
Her sudden silence raised his suspicion.
He was arrested on suspicion of theft.
There’s a suspicion of arrogance in his tone.
I have a suspicion that the project will be delayed.
The evidence was too weak to confirm their suspicions.