Dishonest

Definition

Dishonest is an adjective that describes a person, action, or behavior that is untruthful, deceitful, or fraudulent. It implies a lack of integrity or fairness, often used to describe actions intended to deceive or mislead.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈɑːnɪst/
• Respelling: dis-AH-nist

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dɪsˈɒnɪst/
• Respelling: dis-ON-ist

Etymology

The word "dishonest" originates from the Latin "dishonestus," combining "dis-" (expressing negation) with "honestus" (honorable or honest). It entered Middle English in the late 14th century, signifying deceitfulness or lack of honor.

Derivatives

• Dishonesty (noun)
• Dishonestly (adverb)
• Undishonest (adjective, rare)
• Dishonorable (adjective)
• Dishonor (noun/verb)

Synonyms

• Deceitful
• Untrustworthy
• Fraudulent

Antonyms

• Honest
• Trustworthy
• Truthful

Usage

The adjective "dishonest" is often used to describe actions or people lacking integrity, as in "He was caught for his dishonest actions." It also appears in discussions of ethical behavior, such as "Dishonest behavior can erode trust in relationships."

Related Terms

• Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
• Deception: The act of misleading or deceiving someone.
• Ethics: Moral principles governing a person's behavior.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Not honest; prone to deceit or fraud: Refers to actions or behavior lacking truthfulness or integrity.
  • Example: "The salesperson was accused of dishonest tactics."
• Involving deception or cheating: Describes actions that are intended to mislead or defraud.
  • Example: "She was involved in dishonest practices at work."