Entry Word: confidence

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 great faith in oneself or oneʼs abilities <a lifelong confidence that enabled her to achieve great things despite powerful obstacles>

Synonyms aplomb, assurance, self-assurance, self-confidence, self-esteem

Related Words cockiness, complacence, complacency, conceit, conceitedness, ego, egotism, overconfidence, pompousness, pride, self-admiration, self-conceit, self-importance, self-satisfaction, smugness, vainglory, vanity; calmness, composure, coolness, equanimity; self-possession

Near Antonyms apprehension, doubt, misgiving

Antonyms diffidence, self-doubt

2 a state of mind in which one is free from doubt <the confidence with which the game show contestant answered every question>

Synonyms assurance, assuredness, certainty, certitude, conviction, positiveness, sureness

Related Words authoritarianism, dogmatism; decisiveness, firmness, resolution

Near Antonyms hesitancy, hesitation, indecisiveness, irresolution

Antonyms doubt, incertitude, nonconfidence, uncertainty

3 firm belief in the integrity, ability, effectiveness, or genuineness of someone or something <as players, we have complete confidence in our coach> — see trust 1
4 information shared only with another or with a select few <accused him of betraying a confidence> — see secret 1