sincere

adjective sin·cere \sin-ˈsir, sən-\

: having or showing true feelings that are expessesd in an honest way

: genuine or real : not false, fake, or pretended

sin·cer·ersin·cer·est

Full Definition of SINCERE

a : free of dissimulation : honest <a sincere interest>

b : free from adulteration : pure <a sincere doctrine> <sincere wine>

: marked by genuineness : true

— sin·cere·ly adverb

— sin·cere·ness noun

See sincere defined for English-language learners

See sincere defined for kids

Origin of SINCERE

Middle French, from Latin sincerus whole, pure, genuine, probably from sem- one + -cerus (akin to Latin crescere to grow) — more at same, crescent

First Known Use: 1533

Related to SINCERE

Synonyms: heartfelt, unfeigned

Antonyms: affected, artificial, false, feigned, insincere

Synonym Discussion of SINCERE

sincere, wholehearted, heartfelt, hearty, unfeigned mean genuine in feeling. sincere stresses absence of hypocrisy, feigning, or any falsifying embellishment or exaggeration <a sincere apology>. wholehearted suggests sincerity and earnest devotion without reservation or misgiving <promised our wholehearted support>. heartfelt suggests depth of genuine feeling outwardly expressed <expresses our heartfelt gratitude>. hearty suggests honesty, warmth, and exuberance in displaying feeling <received a hearty welcome>. unfeigned stresses spontaneity and absence of pretense <her unfeigned delight at receiving the award>.

SINCERE Defined for Kids