sincere

sin·cere

adj \sin-ˈsir, sən-\

sin·cer·ersin·cer·est

Definition of SINCERE

1

a : free of dissimulation : honest <a sincere interest> b : free from adulteration : pure <a sincere doctrine> <sincere wine>

2

: marked by genuineness : true

— sin·cere·ly adverb

— sin·cere·ness noun

Examples of SINCERE

1. He sounded sincere in his promises.
2. She seemed sincere in her commitment to finish school.
3. She has a sincere interest in painting.
4. He showed a sincere concern for her health.
5. He made a sincere attempt to quit smoking.
6. Please accept our sincere thanks.

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

Related Words: unaffected, unforced; artless, honest, ingenuous, translucent, transparent, true; authentic, genuine; hearty, wholehearted, whole-souled

Near Antonyms: backhanded, double-dealing, hypocritical, left-handed, mealy, mealymouthed, two-faced, unctuous

see all synonyms and antonyms

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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>.