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incertitude

noun
in·​cer·​ti·​tude | \ (ˌ)in-ˈsər-tə-ˌtüd How to pronounce incertitude (audio) , -ˌtyüd\

Definition of incertitude

: uncertainty:
a : absence of assurance or confidence : doubt
b : the quality or state of being unstable or insecure
Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More about incertitude

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Examples of incertitude in a Sentence

a growing incertitude about the honesty of the housekeeper they had just hired

Recent Examples on the Web

 The difficulty for me in pinning the city down geographically is reflected in a broader ideological incertitude; a current questioning of the state’s identity and place. — Marley Marius, Vogue, "A Guide to Kansas City, Missouri: Its History, Its Culture, and Why It’s Worth a Closer Look," 23 Nov. 2018 Like him, these TPS recipients will now how to live in incertitude. — Fabienne Josaphat, Teen Vogue, "My Father’s Earthquake Survival Story is Why Haitians Need Temporary Protective Status," 11 Dec. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'incertitude.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of incertitude

15th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for incertitude

Middle English, from Middle French, from Late Latin incertitudo, from Latin in- + Late Latin certitudo certitude

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Time Traveler for incertitude

The first known use of incertitude was in the 15th century

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