Dictionary
1confidence
noun con·fi·dence \ˈkän-fə-dən(t)s, -ˌden(t)s\
: a feeling or belief that you can do something well or succeed at something
: a feeling or belief that someone or something is good or has the ability to succeed at something
: the feeling of being certain that something will happen or that something is true
Full Definition of CONFIDENCE
1
a : a feeling or consciousness of one's powers or of reliance on one's circumstances <had perfect confidence in her ability to succeed> <met the risk with brash confidence> b : faith or belief that one will act in a right, proper, or effective way <have confidence in a leader>
2
: the quality or state of being certain : certitude <they had every confidence of success>
3
a : a relation of trust or intimacy <took his friend into his confidence> b : reliance on another's discretion <their story was told in strictest confidence> c : support especially in a legislative body <vote of confidence>
4
: a communication made in confidence : secret <accused him of betraying a confidence>
See confidence defined for English-language learners
See confidence defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of CONFIDENCE
14th century
Related to CONFIDENCE
- Synonyms
- aplomb, assurance, self-assurance, self-assuredness, self-confidence, self-esteem, self-trust
- Antonyms
- diffidence, insecurity, self-distrust, self-doubt
Synonym Discussion of CONFIDENCE
confidence, assurance, self-possession, aplomb mean a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment. confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance <the confidence that comes from long experience>. assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers <handled the cross-examination with complete assurance>. self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers <answered the insolent question with complete self-possession>. aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations <handled the reporters with great aplomb>.
2confidence
adjective
Definition of CONFIDENCE
: of, relating to, or adept at swindling by false promises <a confidence game> <a confidence man>
First Known Use of CONFIDENCE
1849
Rhymes with CONFIDENCE
CONFIDENCE Defined for Kids
confidence
noun con·fi·dence \ˈkän-fə-dəns\
Definition of CONFIDENCE for Kids
1
: a feeling of trust or belief <Do you have confidence in your partner?>
2
3
: reliance on another's secrecy or loyalty <Remember, I told you that in confidence.>
4
: 2secret <Don't betray a confidence.>
Learn More About CONFIDENCE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: confidence coursePrevious Word in the Dictionary: confideAll Words Near: confidence
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up confidence? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).