distrustful

adjective

dis·​trust·​ful (ˌ)dis-ˈtrəs(t)-fəl 

: having or showing distrust

distrustfully

(ˌ)dis-ˈtrəs(t)-fə-lē 

adverb

distrustfulness noun

Synonyms of distrustful

• skeptical
• suspicious
• cautious
• mistrustful
• careful

Examples of distrustful in a Sentence

she was distrustful of her boyfriend's claim of having saved the kitten from a raging fire

naturally distrustful of politicians who claim to have all the answers

Recent Examples on the Web

When over half of shoppers intentionally provide proxy emails or fake numbers to avoid spam and data exposure, brands end up building marketing strategies on flawed, unresponsive databases while alienating distrustful consumers. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 4 Nov. 2026

In many instances Rama approaches difficult situations with restraint and adherence to dharma (righteous conduct), whereas Lakshmana is expressive, impulsive, quick to anger, and distrustful. — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026

Jones was often jealous, distrustful, possessive and controlling of his girlfriend, according to the Tarrant County Criminal District Attorney’s Office. — Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Oct. 2026

The women recognize each other from group therapy and immediately are distrustful of one another. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 7 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for distrustful

• mistrustful
• lustful
• trustful