Truth

Definition

Truth refers to the quality or state of being in accordance with fact or reality. It also signifies honesty, sincerity, and the genuine nature of a statement or concept.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /truːθ/
• Respelling: TROOTH

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /truːθ/
• Respelling: TROOTH

Etymology

The word "truth" originates from Old English "trēowþ," meaning "faith, fidelity, or veracity," derived from the Proto-Germanic "*treuwithō," meaning "faithfulness." It shares roots with the Old High German "triuwida" and Old Norse "tryggð," and has been used in English to denote alignment with reality or fact since the 12th century.

Derivatives

• Truthful (adjective)
• Truthfully (adverb)
• Truthfulness (noun)
• Untruth (noun)
• Half-truth (noun)

Synonyms

• Reality
• Fact
• Veracity

Antonyms

• Lie
• Falsehood
• Deceit

Usage

The noun "truth" is used to describe factual correctness or honesty. For example, "The journalist sought to uncover the truth behind the events." It can also be used philosophically to explore concepts of reality, as in "What is the nature of truth?"

Related Terms

• Honesty: The quality of being truthful or sincere.
• Reality: The state of things as they actually exist.
• Integrity: The quality of being honest and morally upright.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The quality or state of being true or in accordance with fact or reality: Refers to the objective correctness of a statement or belief.
  • Example: "The scientist presented evidence to support the truth of his hypothesis."
• That which is true or factual: Refers to facts or reality itself.
  • Example: "She spoke the truth about what happened that day."
• The quality of being honest or sincere: Refers to moral or personal authenticity.
  • Example: "His reputation for truth earned him the community's trust."