misgiving

noun

mis·​giv·​ing ˌmis-ˈgi-viŋ 

: a feeling of doubt or suspicion especially concerning a future event

Many people have expressed misgivings about his ability to do the job.

Synonyms of misgiving

• doubt
• skepticism
• suspicion
• uncertainty

Examples of misgiving in a Sentence

I felt some misgiving about his ability to do the job.

They regarded the plan with misgiving.

Recent Examples on the Web

Several Republican senators expressed misgivings about accepting the plane, pointing to the potential for security and legal risks. — Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 10 July 2026

But many women who have become first lady of California and the nation have expressed misgivings about taking on such a role. — Jenny Jarvie follow, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026

An eminent film critic has written a new analysis of cinema that is propelled by exactly such misgivings. — Michael O’Donnell, The Atlantic, 2 July 2026

The history of reception is also a history of cherished hopes, beliefs, and misgivings. — Clare Bucknell, The New York Review of Books, 27 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1582, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for misgiving

• almsgiving
• caregiving
• forgiving
• nonliving
• reliving
• thanksgiving
• giving
• living
• sieving
• unforgiving

Kids Definition

misgiving

noun

mis·​giv·​ing (ˈ)mis-ˈgiv-iŋ 

: a feeling of doubt or suspicion especially concerning a future event