doubts; doubted; doubting
1
: to be uncertain about (something) : to believe that (something) may not be true or is unlikely
She began to doubt [=question] everything he said.
I have always doubted the existence of life on other planets.
No one doubts that the mission will be a success.
I seriously doubt my parents will let me go.
"Do you think you can come tonight?" "I doubt it."
2
: to have no confidence in (someone or something)
I began to doubt [=question] my own judgment.
She doubted his ability to succeed.
He said he could do it, but I couldn't help doubting him.
plural doubts
: a feeling of being uncertain or unsure about something
I still have moments of doubt.
There can be little doubt that smoking is bad for your health.
There is no doubt [=question] in my mind that he is the best candidate.
These mistakes cast/throw doubt on her ability. = They cast/throw into doubt her ability. [=they make people question or lose confidence in her ability]
(US) The results of the study have been called into doubt. [=people are expressing doubts about the results]
—often + aboutShe was filled with doubt [=uncertainty] about the future.
The evidence against her leaves little room for doubt about her guilt. [=the evidence shows that she is guilty]
I had a nagging doubt in the back of my mind.
—often + aboutHe still has doubts about his chances of success.
I've always had my doubts about him.
Two separate studies have raised doubts about the car's safety.
Cite this Entry
“Doubt.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/doubt. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
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