First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
believe
verb be·lieve \bə-ˈlēv\
: to accept or regard (something) as true
: to accept the truth of what is said by (someone)
: to have (a specified opinion)
be·lievedbe·liev·ing
Full Definition of BELIEVE
intransitive verb
1
a : to have a firm religious faith b : to accept something as true, genuine, or real <ideals we believe in> <believes in ghosts>
2
: to have a firm conviction as to the goodness, efficacy, or ability of something <believe in exercise>
3
: to hold an opinion : think <I believe so>
transitive verb
1
a : to consider to be true or honest <believe the reports> <you wouldn't believe how long it took> b : to accept the word or evidence of <I believe you> <couldn't believe my ears>
2
: to hold as an opinion : suppose <I believe it will rain soon>
— be·liev·er noun
— not believe
: to be astounded at <I couldn't believe my luck>
See believe defined for English-language learners
See believe defined for kids
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Examples of BELIEVE
- I have watched the many ways that teachers demonstrate pleasure in what students have said or done. I used to believe that teachers needed to present a stoic face for fear of losing control—as if smiling caused bad behavior. —Nancy Mack, English Journal, September 2008
- Scientists kept a close eye on Mount Saint Helens. The volcano in Washington State spewed steam and ash throughout the month, leading experts to believe that it could erupt at any time. —Time For Kids, 17 Dec. 2004
- They parted as casually as any friends who believe they will meet in a few days. But each knew the other was in deadly peril of his life. —Esther Forbes, Johnny Tremain, 1943
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Origin of BELIEVE
Middle English beleven, from Old English belēfan, from be- + lȳfan, lēfan to allow, believe; akin to Old High German gilouben to believe, Old English lēof dear — more at love
Related to BELIEVE
Rhymes with BELIEVE
BELIEVING Defined for Kids
believe
verb be·lieve \bə-ˈlēv\
be·lievedbe·liev·ing
Definition of BELIEVE for Kids
1
: to have faith or confidence in the existence or worth of <I don't believe in ghosts.> <He believes in daily exercise.>
2
: to accept as true <Don't believe everything you read.>
3
: to accept the word of <They didn't believe me.>
4
: to hold an opinion : think <I believe I'll have more time later.>
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